New plant health rules come into force

The government has reminded industry about new plant health regulations taking effect next week, aimed at controlling specific pests and goods.

Defra, the government department for environment, food, and rural affairs, introduced the regulations in April but they only came into force on 15 October.

Part of the rules target the solanum fruit fly (Bactrocera latifrons), setting out requirements for fruits of Solanum (i.e. tomatoes, aubergines) and fruits of Capsicum (i.e. peppers) originating from Taiwan and Israel.

The rules also address a soil-borne bacterium called Ralstonia pseudosolanacearum, restricting rhizomes of Zingiber officinale (i.e. ginger) originating from all countries other than EU Member States, Liechtenstein, and Switzerland.

If you have any comments or questions about the new rules or other plant health regulations, please email planthealth@defra.gov.uk.