During a time when the UK is competing against many other countries for its share of global fruit and vegetable supplies, the controversy over DPA residue levels is understandable. Hopefully, the European Commission’s delay on deciding the new levels will result in a better situation for all parties involved, including the British consumer. We have become accustomed to eating apples all year round, and one wonders how shoppers will react should such a luxury be taken away from them?

With issues surrounding citrus imports from South Africa (see page 18) also causing headaches for importers and suppliers, if the EU does not see sense then there is a danger that the UK will see a day when certain produce is simply not available for large parts of the year.

On another note, next week our series of conferences is coming to Cambridge, where a top-notch lineup of speakers and delegates will discuss some of the biggest issues of the day (see pages 20-22).

It should be a fantastic and interactive event, and I would urge you to sign up at www.fpjconferences.com. I look forward to seeing you there!