Ring rot checks on German spuds
Ring rot checks on German spuds
INDIVIDUAL checks will be made on all imports of potatoes from Germany in a bid to prevent the introduction of potato ring rot into the UK.
The highly contagious disease has recently been discovered in eight consignments – amounting to 126t – of potatoes from Germany. All the consignments were a variety called Satina but German authorities have confirmed the disease has also been seen in 30 other varieties.
To combat the threat, DEFRA has introduced a requirement for Plant Health Service to monitor potatoes on arrival from Germany and take samples as necessary to make sure they are disease free. *
Industry organisations from the UK are increasingly concerned about the risks from this disease. They fear if it entered the UK, it would be extremely difficult to eradicate. Losses would also arise from lower yields, compliance with control measures, and reduced exports.