Is Fumigation of Tree nuts like Cashew required by Legislation?
Hello Experts,
We are planning to procure a Cashew nuts from one of the supplier , who basically procure cashew nuts in bulk and processing the materials basically screening or manual sorting before pack the product
However, the supplier don't carry out any fumigation to control weevils or insects/ pest infestation (with phosphine gas)
We would like to know your technical inputs to clarify the following queries:
1. Cashew nut would required to undergo fumigation considered to be readily consumable.
2. Does, country regulation ( FSSAI/ India ) states any of the specific requirements for the products
Appreciated your help in advance.
Regards,
Baskaran.G.
I believe, the fumigation in tree nuts is done voluntarily depending on the infestation problems the facility storage and the product have in general or as a preventive/corrective action to control insect and microbial loads.
However, if the fumigation has been done, there is a regulatory requirement on the residual amount of fumigation gas used (eg phosphine, methyl bromide, sulfur dioxide ) present in the final product and MRL requirement varies from country to country. In the past , I have used BC Global to monitor my pesticides MRL. BCG’s Global Pesticide Maximum Residue Levels (MRLs) Database (bryantchristie.com). Not sure, if they still provide the free service but this was a good resource.