The NZ fresh tomato industry has many lessons to learn from what has happened in Australia over the last 10 months since Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus was first detected in South Australia. One lesson is that every part of the sector has a role to play in biosecurity. This begins with the seeds that are imported, continues with the nurseries that are used to propagate those seeds, and involves everyone who provides services to those who nurture the plants to grow the tomatoes that New Zealanders love to eat.
In recent months, Tomatoes New Zealand (TNZ) has been working with the organisation responsible for nurseries (NZPPI – NZ Plant Producers) to create a list of hygiene guidelines that nurseries should incorporate into their management systems. This includes offering testing for pathogens at a customer's request. While this guidance is being reviewed, growers can already request that their seedlings be tested for ToBRFV, through either a plant material test or a water sample test. Conducting these tests before seedlings are released provides some assurance that the seedlings planted in greenhouses are free of ToBRFV.
Tomatoes New Zealand then calls on all those who offer services to their growers to act appropriately. Whether a service provider is a transport provider delivering seedlings, dropping off crates, picking up plant material waste, or taking tomatoes to market; an electrician, plumber, or boiler maintenance specialist; advising on nutrient management or crop protection; or delivering bees to ensure vital pollination of the flowers, they thank these service providers for their contributions to the growers. However, they ask that these services be delivered in a way that considers the biosecurity threats the industry faces. Service providers are urged not to ask to enter the greenhouse, and transport drivers should aim to stay in their vehicles. If exit is necessary, a clean pair of disposable overshoes and gloves should be used. Deliveries should be left in a safe place, away from the greenhouse and packing shed. Meetings between representatives and growers should ideally take place off-site.
Today, the threat comes from ToBRFV, but tomorrow, next month, or even next year, another disease could pose a risk. To maintain the availability of fresh tomatoes on supermarket shelves, everyone must play their part.
Source: Tomatoes New Zealand
