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Title: Phytosanitary irradiation in south Asia

Author
item HOSSAIN, M. AFTAB - Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission
item Hallman, Guy
item KHAN, SHAKIL - Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission
item ISLAM, M. SAIDUL - Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission

Submitted to: Journal of Entomology and Nematology
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: 12/28/2010
Publication Date: 3/1/2011
Citation: Hossain, M., Hallman, G.J., Khan, S.A., Islam, M. 2011. Phytosanitary irradiation in south Asia. Journal of Entomology and Nematology. 3:44-53.

Interpretive Summary: Using irradiation as a quarantine treatment can solve some trade problems in south Asia that are due to quarantine pests. More fresh agricultural commodities tolerate irradiation than any other commercial treatment. The technology is available in some countries of the region, but is only used as a quarantine treatment for mangoes in India exported to the US since 2007. This paper reviews the irradiation literature in south Asia, gives the protocol for exporting irradiated Indian mangoes, suggests further possibilities for the technology in south Asia, and discusses research needs.

Technical Abstract: Irradiation has the potential to solve phytosanitary problems related to trade in south Asia. In general, it is the phytosanitary treatment most tolerated by fresh agricultural commodities. Irradiation technology is available in some countries of the region but is only used for phytosanitary purposes for mangoes in India exported to the US since 2007. In this review, we analyze the literature on phytosanitary irradiation, present the protocol for exporting irradiated Indian mangoes, suggest possibilities for the technology in south Asia, and discuss further research needs.