Green light to organic citrus fruits from Argentina in the EU market

Following two decades of anticipation, the European Union (EU) has finally reopened its market to organic citrus from Argentina, thanks to the efforts of the National Agri-Food Health and Quality Service (Senasa) in securing approval for a specific postharvest treatment.

The General Directorate for Agriculture and Rural Development of the European Commission (DG AGRI) notified Senasa of its acceptance of the proposal to employ sodium bicarbonate as a postharvest treatment for organic citrus fruits destined for the EU market.

The use of sodium bicarbonate was previously authorized by the EU's General Directorate of Health and Food Safety (DG SANTE) for its efficacy in disinfecting against canker (Xanthomonas citri pv citri).

The decision to reopen the market holds great promise for Argentine organic citrus producers, who currently cultivate over 3,300 hectares of land dedicated to organic citrus production. During the period between 2001 and 2003, Senasa had certified shipments of 2,500 tons of fresh organic citrus, primarily comprising oranges and lemons, to the EU.