Newsroom > News Releases / Information Bulletins 

TEMPORARY RESTRICTIONS ON IDAHO POTATOES

• Update - 2006-10-06 - Canada-U.S. Potato Cyst Nematode Import Restrictions Lifted

Ottawa, April 20, 2006 - 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.

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.

The PCN is a quarantine pest in Canada and the United States (U.S.). The scientific name of the species of PCN pest detected in Idaho is Globodera pallida, commonly known as Pale Cyst Nematode. In Canada, this species is found in limited areas of Newfoundland and strict quarantine measures are in place to prevent its spread. This is the first finding of this pest in the U.S. In the past, a closely related pest, Golden Nematode (Globodera rostochiensis), has been found in New York State, Newfoundland and Vancouver Island and both Canada and the U.S. have strict quarantine restrictions in place for affected products from these areas. Additional information on both of these species is available on the CFIA Web site.

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.

-30-

Canadian Food Inspection Agency
Media Relations: (613) 228-6682

• Main Page - Potato Cyst Nematode