advertentieThe NVWA has instructed the inspection service KCB to start random sampling of fresh ginger from third countries starting Monday, August 4, 2025. This is due to recent findings of the EU quarantine bacterium Ralstonia pseudosolanacearum in import shipments of fresh ginger. This bacterium can cause brown rot.
Infection not always immediately visible in ginger
We previously conducted research which showed that about 13% of the batches of ginger were infected with the Ralstonia pseudosolanacearum bacterium. Some of these batches showed no symptoms of the brown rot disease. Fresh ginger is normally only sampled when visible symptoms are present. Due to the discovery of symptomless infections, sampling is now being expanded to include mandatory random sampling when no symptoms are present.
After sampling
The sampled batch is recorded and the sample is sent to the NIVIP for testing for the presence of Ralstonia pseudosolanacearum. The rapid detection test (PCR) provides results regarding the possible presence of the bacterium in the sample after an average of 3 working days. In the case of a positive result, an identification follows, which is often completed within 10 working days.
The following test results are possible:
- PCR negative: the batch is released
- PCR positive: the bacterium is detected and identified at the species level
- Positive identification: the batch must be returned to the sender, destroyed, or taken outside the EU
The costs for sampling and testing will be charged to the declarant.
Later also for turmeric
In the future, this sampling will be extended to fresh turmeric from third countries. More information will follow soon.
More information
Read more about Ralstonia pseudosolanacearum. Also see the EPPO Global Database for an up-to-date overview of host plants and the spread of R. pseudosolanacearum.
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