Temporary Restrictions on Idaho Potatoes
21 April 2006
Temporary Restrictions on Idaho Potatoes
The following is extracted from a news release issued on 20 April by the CFIA.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has implemented a temporary prohibition on the import of all potatoes and soil from Idaho due to the detection of Potato Cyst Nematode (PCN). This prohibition is a science-based interim measure that will be reviewed as new scientific information becomes available.
Any shipments found to contain wood packaging that does not meet Canadian import requirements are the responsibility of the importer or person in care and control of the regulated article(s). This may result in further delays, additional costs, monetary penalties or in some cases, the shipment may be ordered removed from Canada.
The temporary prohibition covers all potatoes from the State of Idaho (seed, table and processing) and soil. Other potential pathways that could introduce this pest to Canada are also being reviewed. This also includes the cancellation of existing import permits allowing the import of these affected products into Canada. This is a regionalized risk-management approach that is consistent with international standards.
The PCN does not pose a risk to human health, but can significantly affect the yields of potatoes and other host crops, such as tomatoes and eggplants. The pest infests the soil where these crops are grown and has been known to reduce yields by up to 80 percent.
We recognize the significance of this detection to the U.S. and its trading partners and will continue to work closely with them on this issue. A delegation from the CFIA will be going to Idaho to participate in the review of the situation and gather technical information. We will continue to keep our stakeholders and provincial counterparts informed of any developments. Latest information will also be posted to the CFIA Web site as it becomes available.
The news release is available in its entirety on the CFIA web site, at:
http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/corpaffr/newcom/2006/20060420e.shtml