A suspected case of the notifiable potato disease ring rot is being investigated by officials in Wales.

The suspected tubers are part of a ware consignment imported from Poland. Ring rot is a serious non-indigenous bacterial, disease requiring quarantine of potatoes. The disease is known to occur in parts of the EU.

Sharon Hall, head of communications, at the Potato Council, confirmed that the case was being investigated and that the Food and Environment Research Agency (FERA) were awaiting the results of tests which may take several weeks.

“Inspectors have checked the waste disposal route and even if the tests proved positive, there is no cause for concern.”
Sharon Hall, the Potato Council’s head of communication

The consignment of potatoes from Poland were found at a processor in Wales and had already been processed. “Inspectors have checked the waste disposal route and even if the tests proved positive, there is no cause for concern,” she said.

She added that the risk to growers is minimal and is a timely reminder that all importers should adhere precisely to import requirements notified by FERA, Science and Advice for Scottish Agriculture, and the Welsh Assembly Government.

The last outbreak detected in Wales was in 2003. The disease was eradicated and further spread through the UK was prevented.

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