Zespri praised, organic kiwifruit growers stressed
On Monday Zespri, Bio-Gro and the Ministry for Primary Industries called a meeting of organic growers in Tauranga to discuss the implications of the discovery of a chemical residue on some fruit which could potentially affect its organic status.
A small number of growers have been using a product called Citrox BioAlexin as an elicitor to help vines cope with the bacterial disease Psa-V but recent testing by Zespri has shown some batches of the product contained traces of a chemical called antimicrobial Didecyl Dimethyl Ammonium Chloride commonly used in sanitation products.
“Unlike the case of DCD in milk powder, there was no delay in reacting to the discovery,” Damien told SunLive.
Damien says while it is fortunate that DDAC does not have any adverse implications for human health, it is disappointing for organic growers that it has been found in products which shouldn’t contain it.
The discovery adds to the stresses many growers are already facing caused by the kiwifruit vine disease Psa-V and the summer drought.
“It is important that Zespri uphold its reputation in the markets because it is this that enables it to earn a premium for growers.
“It is hoped that this discovery will not affect the ability of those affected growers to continue with their organic status.
“This incident also illustrates the on-going challenge our primary industries face and reminds us that standards can never be too high.”
Source: www.sunlive.co.nz
