NFU calls for swift action on Epitrix Potato Flea Beetle threat

The UK potato industry could be dealt a devastating blow if a species of beetle found on the Continent is allowed to thrive here, the NFU has said.

Experts predict that the Epitrix flea beetle could wipe £40million from our potato market if it were to spread from affected regions in Spain and Portugal.

They also believe that if it does reach the UK it would be impossible to eradicate and costly to control.

Growers, processors and packers have been urged to notify the Food and Environment Research Agency if they buy products from either country.

The NFU has backed that call – but we are also pushing for the notification to become a statutory measure as soon as possible.

NFU potato forum chairman Allan Stevenson said: “We hope that the entire industry will join forces to call for statutory measures to ensure swift action against this threat. It is vital that we take the lead in Europe on this issue to protect our growers from any possible harm.”

The European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organisation has recently published a sooner-than-expected Pest Risk Assessment on Epitrix which could prompt EU-wide measures to manage the beetle, including its listing as s a quarantine pest.

The NFU stresses, however, that growers should continue with the FERA notification scheme.

Notifications must include an expected delivery date, grower name and address, grower registration number, contact number, load number and details on whether potatoes have been washed or brushed.