The U.S. Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has announced all fresh cherries from the Canadian province of Ontario will be refused entry at all U.S. ports, following the detection of European cherry fruit fly (ECFF).

A Federal Order makes the measure effective immediately, applying to both commercial shipments and non-commercial imports, including fresh cherries carried by travelers who are crossing the U.S.-Canada border.

The import suspension includes black, mahaleb, sour and sweet cherries.

"APHIS is also requiring that imports of these commodities from a Canadian province other than Ontario must have their origin verified," Plant Protection and Quarantine Deputy Administrator Osama El-Lissy said in the order.

"Until ECFF was found in Ontario, these commodities were enterable into the United States from all provinces of Canada with inspection at the first point of entry."

Cherries that have been frozen, canned, cooked, dehydrated, jellied, juiced, or pickled, are still allowed from all Canadian provinces.

Photo: www.shutterstock.com

www.freshfruitportal.com