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Seminis Statement Regarding Clavibacter Symptoms in Dutch Greenhouse Tomato Production
Seminis provides the following statement regarding reports of Clavibacter symptoms in some tomato varieties, including the Seminis hybrid variety, Bizarr, in greenhouse production in the Netherlands:
Barcelona, January 9, 2008 –
Seminis has received reports from several plant raisers and growers in the Netherlands who are observing symptoms associated with Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. michiganesis (Cmm), in some fall crops of tomatoes in greenhouse production. One of our tomato hybrid varieties, Bizarr, has been associated with these symptoms. Cmm is highly contagious and can be introduced by various sources.
Seminis understands the impact the disease can have on the vegetable industry. As a seed supplier, we are committed to minimizing the risk of these diseases being seed-borne. As such, Seminis seed lots undergo state-of-the-art seed health testing prior to commercial release, in line with industry accepted practices and protocol. These tests showed no presence of Cmm in the Bizarr variety prior to sale. In addition, a test conducted by the Dutch Plant Protection Service (PD) also showed no presence of Cmm.
Based upon the recent reports of observed Cmm symptoms, PD is retesting the Bizarr seed variety and will have results in the next few weeks. PD is monitoring the presence of Cmm in some greenhouse plant materials and is assessing the situation to understand the extent of the occurrence. Seminis is working with the Dutch Plant Protection Service to provide assistance as needed.
We understand that in some situations, PD is requesting some plants not be released. To the extent that any plant raiser/grower has concerns about their upcoming planting options, Seminis is available to discuss these. We continue to have discussions with our customers to make sure them aware of the current situation and understand their concerns.
Seminis recommends each plant raiser and grower to carefully inspect their plants for disease symptoms. If disease symptoms are observed, we strongly encourage plant raisers and growers to contact appropriate plant authoritiesfor additional inspection or testing.
Seminis takes any reports of Cmm very seriously. We are committed to proper stewardship of our product and will work with our industry colleagues and customers to understand the extent of the Cmm occurrence and what the cause may be.
Contact
Miguel Pujol
Telephone: 34-93-5762223
