Ware potatoes imported from Poland to Great Britain – findings of Ring Rot (Clavibacter sependonicus)

• During routine inspections, two related consignments of ware potatoes imported from Poland by the same Polish exporter have tested positive for Ring Rot (Clavibacter sependonicus)
• The UK Plant Health Service is working with The National Plant Protection Organisation (NPPO) of Poland to gather further information regarding the source of the infected consignment
• Tracing of the affected consignments has been completed, with inspections completed at several locations linked to its movement, together with destruction of the remaining stocks
• None of the locations involved were potato growers or linked to agriculture

Until further notice, there will be increased inspections on consignments of ware potatoes from Poland:

• There will be a 100 % inspection rate and latent testing of all consignments of Polish ware, including for bulk consignments. This has been raised from 50%.
• If there are any suspect symptoms, the consignments will be put on hold, pending diagnosis.
• Latent testing of 400 tubers will be carried out, an increase from 200 tubers for all consignments.
• Irrespective of whether there are suspect symptoms, consignments from the affected Polish exporter will be held pending the results of latent testing.
• Any consignment of ware potatoes found to be infected with Clavibacter sependonicus, will be required to be destroyed under a Statutory Plant Health Notice

As Clavibacter sependonicus is listed as a GB Quarantine Pest, any confirmed findings would result in official response measures being put in place. Surveillance will be carried out to identify infected and probably infected tubers or plants, places of production and other premises handling potatoes, machinery, vehicles, vessels, stores and any other objects including packaging material.

Any findings at a processor would result in a Statutory Plant Health notice being issued, which would require a full clean down and disinfection of the premises before operations could resume.

 As a reminder, anyone intending to import ware potatoes should refer to gov.uk for guidance at https://www.gov.uk/guidance/import-plants-and-plant-products-from-non-eu-countries-to-great-britain and contact APHA PHSI for any further clarification

Please see the factsheet for further information on the pest.

 An update will be published when more information is available.