Opole plant inspectors launch potato health checks

Inspectors from the Provincial Inspectorate of Plant Health and Seed Inspection in Opole have launched health inspections for potatoes to detect quarantine pests. The checks focus on identifying bacteria, such as Clavibacter sepedonicus and Ralstonia solanacearum, as well as nematodes of the Meloidogyne spp. genus.

Because these pests can be difficult to detect visually during plant growth or on tubers, the process involves both visual assessments and laboratory testing. Samples are collected following strict phytosanitary safety protocols, including the use of protective clothing and new, undamaged packaging, to prevent secondary contamination. Collected samples are sent to the Central Laboratory of the General Inspectorate of Plant Health and Seed Inspection in Katowice for detailed analysis. These inspections, conducted under the Single Market Programme, also aim to increase awareness among potato producers regarding these biological threats.