News Release | 22-12-2025 | 09:50

The NVWA has instructed the inspection service KCB to start, from Monday January 19, 2026, additional random sampling of fresh turmeric (Curcuma longa) from third countries. Fresh turmeric is normally only sampled if visible symptoms are present. This is now expanded to mandatory, random, symptomless sampling.

The reason for this is recent findings of the EU quarantine bacterium Ralstonia pseudosolanacearum in import shipments of fresh turmeric. Research showed that a small portion of the batches were contaminated with this bacterium. The majority of these batches showed no symptoms of the disease.

Sampling Procedure

The sampled batch is recorded and the sample is sent to NIVIP for testing for the presence of the bacterial wilt bacterium Ralstonia pseudosolanacearum.

The detection test used provides results within 7 working days regarding the possible presence of the bacterium in the sample. If positive, an identification follows. This test takes a maximum of 14 working days.

The following test results are possible:

  • PCR negative: the batch is released
  • PCR positive: the bacterium is detected and identified at species level
  • Negative identification: the batch is released
  • Positive identification: measure ‘return’, ‘destruction’ or ‘removal from the EU’

The costs for sampling and testing are charged to the applicant.

Background

R. pseudosolanacearum is the cause of bacterial wilt disease and can infect various plant species. The bacterium has EU quarantine status and may not be introduced into the EU. Infections in the Netherlands must be eradicated.

In the Netherlands, R. pseudosolanacearum has been found on anthurium and roses. An important source of infection is plant material from tropical countries where the disease occurs. Infection occurs via contaminated planting material and contaminated surface water, but also via wastewater from the food processing industry.

See also the EPPO Global Database for an up-to-date overview of host plants and the distribution of R. pseudosolanacearum.

More Information

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