Poland: Problems with export of Polish potatoes. Dangerous bacteria detected

British health authorities have confirmed three positive cases of Clavibacter sepedonicus in edible potatoes from Poland. Two samples came from one exporter and the third from another Polish supplier. Ring rot is a serious potato disease that is subject to mandatory control in Poland, but it is not an easy task. 

Potato Ringworm - Why is it Dangerous?

This disease causes large losses in potato harvests. Both due to the reduced productivity of the plant affected by the blight and the destruction of infected tubers. The problem with its detection is that it is often difficult to determine - the leaves turn pale from the edges and lose their tension, but this can be confused with other causes, and complete withering occurs at the end of the growing season, i.e. during harvest. In tubers, ring bacteriosis leads to rotting of the interior, sometimes only an empty shell remains. Unfortunately, this disease is easily transmitted not only in the field, but also during storage. In addition, the bacteria responsible for the disease can survive for a long time on the walls of warehouses or in the ground. 

The disease can only be prevented by using healthy seed potatoes, preferably uncut. It is also necessary to follow the appropriate crop rotation and carefully disinfect agricultural equipment that comes into contact with potatoes, as well as everything in which they were stored. The disease does not pose a direct threat to humans. Confirmation of ring rot cases may even mean a complete suspension of potato imports from Poland by Great Britain and other countries. This depends on the scale of the plague.