Phytosanitary irradiation in South Asia

M. Aftab Hossain¹, J. Guy Hallman²*, A. Shakil Khan¹ and M. Saidul Islam¹

¹Insect Biotechnology Division, Institute of Food and Radiation Biology, Atomic Energy Research Establishment, Savar, Dhaka 1349, Bangladesh.

²USDA-ARS, 2413 E. Highway 83, Weslaco, TX 78596, USA.

*Corresponding author. E-mail : Guy.Hallman@ars.usda.gov. Tel: 956 447-6313. Fax: 956 447-6323.

Accepted 23 December, 2010

Abstract

Irradiation has the potential to solve phytosanitary problems related to trade in South Asia. In general, it is the phytosanitary treatment most tolerated by fresh agricultural commodities. Irradiation technology is available in some countries of the region but is only used for phytosanitary purposes for mangoes in India exported to the United States of America since 2007. In this review, we analyze the literature on phytosanitary irradiation, present the protocol for exporting irradiated Indian mangoes, suggest possibilities for the technology in South Asia and discuss further research needs.

Key words: Radiation disinfestation, quarantine treatment, commodity quality, mango export.