FOREIGN AGRICULTURAL SERVICE
U.S. MISSION TO THE EUROPEAN UNION

 

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Certification of Plant Products

Unlike animal products, certification of plants and plant products is not harmonized in the EU.  Phytosanitary certificates, issued by an APHIS inspector, are required to accompany fruit, vegetable and nut shipments.  APHIS issues phytosanitary certificates in accordance with the international regulations set down by the International Plant Protection Convention of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.  This standard-setting body coordinate cooperation between nations to control plant and plant product pests and to prevent their spread.

In 2001, several large European retailers started EUREPGAP, a certification scheme that harmonizes third-party certification of fresh produce.  Although there is no legal requirement, many retailers have begun requesting EUREPGAP certificates from fresh fruit and vegetable suppliers because of the quality guarantee they offer.

bullet Overview of EU mandatory and voluntary certificates.

Council Directive 2000/29/EC contains provisions concerning compulsory plant health checks.  The checks consist of documentary, identity and physical plant health checks to verify compliance with EU import requirements. More information on DG Health & Consumer Protection's website.  Commission Regulation 1756/2004 provides for plant health checks to be carried out at reduced frequency where this can be justified.  Starting September 1, 2005, EU member states are authorized to reduce the frequency of inspections on imports of U.S. apples (see GAIN report E35173).
 

 

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