Authorities in Türkiye have taken action against a plant disease detected in a consignment of potatoes, resulting in the destruction of approximately 400 tons at a port in the southern city of Mersin. The shipment, originally exported to Tunisia, was sent back to Türkiye, where it was found to be unfit for consumption. An application made on Dec. 24 prompted immediate inspections by the local agricultural quarantine authority, led by Şeref Kabaoğlu, who confirmed the potatoes' unsuitability and initiated their disposal on Jan. 10.
According to Kabaoğlu, returned products are handled with strict oversight, ensuring they do not enter the market and are thoroughly destroyed at designated facilities. Agriculture and Forestry Minister İbrahim Yumaklı also addressed the issue, clarifying that the return was due to a specific plant disease, not pesticide residue or other factors. Yumaklı underscored the government's swift response to safeguard public health and agricultural standards.
In line with maintaining high safety standards, the Agriculture and Forestry Ministry has updated the legal limits for pesticide residue in food products. The revised regulations align with EU standards, encompassing a wide range of products including fresh fruits, vegetables, animal products, legumes, grains, tea, and herbal infusions, ensuring enhanced consumer protection and product quality.
Source: Daily News