A new phytosanitary irradiation treatment plant has been launched in the Mexican state of San Luis Potosí, servicing an area that exports around 300,000 metric tons (MT) of fruit annually.

In a release, the Secretary of Agriculture, Livestock, Rural Development, Fishing and Food (SAGARPA) said the new facility would benefit around 10,000 fruit industry-related families, replacing methyl bromide treatment with irradiation.

The release said the Phytosanitary Irradiation Plant of Phytosa-Benebión would have less impact on the environment and its processes led to longer fruit shelf life.

The plant is one of just eight of its kind in the world and cost US$12 million, while SAGARPA estimates the public good will generate MXN3 billion (US$258.8 million) in guava, mango and citrus exports.

Photo: www.globalmedia.mx

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