American potato growers fear EU chlorprofam policy could affect global potato buyers' sentiment
Idaho potato industry leaders fear that Europe's recent decision not to renew CIPC certification could negatively impact them later.
CIPC (or Chlorprofam) is the world's most popular potato sprout inhibitor, used by farmers since 1952. It is also used as a plant growth regulator and herbicide in the production of alfalfa, onion and sugar beet.
According to potatonewstoday.com, the US Environmental Protection Agency updated the CIPC for another 15 years, around the same time that Europe decided to abandon the update - that is, earlier this summer. However, Europe's decision could have long-term repercussions for American farmers.
Europe is a relatively small market for US potato exports, but global fast food restaurants and other large customers may wish to adopt a consistent EU chlorprofam policy wherever they do business.
Frank Muir, president and chief executive officer of the Idaho Potato Commission, said the US potato industry is paying close attention to developments that could force farmers to switch to less efficient and more costly alternatives.
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