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Table of Contents
- Inspection Procedure
- Appendix 1: Standards for Tubers – Seeds Regulations Part II
- Appendix 2
- 2a: Process for Domestic Seed Potato Shipments: SPTQMP
- 2b: Domestic Seed Potato Inspection Process: SPTQMP
- Appendix 3: Soft Rot or Wet Breakdown
- Appendix 4: Dry Rot
- Appendix 5: Scab
- 5a: Powdery Scab
- 5b: Common Scab
- 5c: Scoring
- Appendix 6
- 6a: Rhizoctonia
- 6b: Rhizoctonia - Scoring
- Appendix 7: Stem end discolouration
- Appendix 8: Malformed and Damage
- 8a: Malformed
- 8b: Insect Damage
- 8c: Mechanical and Physiological Damage
- 8d: Internal Necrosis (Viral)
- 8d: Internal Necrosis (necrotic strains of PVY)
- 8e: Internal Discoloration
- Appendix 9
- 9a: Tubers not firm
- 9b Outgrown Spourts
- Appendix 10: Pressure Bruises
- Appendix 11: Oversize and Undersize
- Appendix 12: Defects not Scorable
- Appendix 13: Bacterial Ring Rot
- Appendix 14: Seed Potato Tuber Inspection Report
- 14a: Seed Potato Tuber Inspection Report (Industry Use Only)
- 14b Seed Potato Tuber Inspection Report (CFIA/ACIA 3076)
- Appendix 15: Seed Potato Certification Tags
- Appendix 16: Record of Bulk Movement
- Appendix 17: Photo Credits
Inspection Procedure
4rd Revision
Table of Contents
- Contact
- Review
- Endorsem*nt
- Amendment Record
- Distribution
- Introduction
- Scope
- 1.0 References
- 2.0 Definitions, Abbreviations and Acronyms
- 3.0 Regulatory Tolerance for Seed Potato Tubers
- 3.1 Defects
- 3.2 Varietal Purity
- 3.3 Tuber Cleanliness
- 4.0 Tuber Inspection Procedures
- 4.1 Inspection Frequency and Sampling Rates
- 4.2 Evaluating and Scoring Tuber Samples
- 4.3 Sampling and Cutting Procedure for Internal Necrosis
- 4.4 Method of Cuttign to Determine Depth of Penetration
- 5.0 Packaging and Repackaging Requirements
- 5.1 Packages
- 5.2 Bulk
- 5.3 Repackaging
- 6.0 Requesting a Reinspection of a Shipment
- 7.0 Documents Used in the Seed Potato Certification Program
- 7.1 Seed Potato Certification Tags
- 7.2 Record of Bulk Movement for Seed Potatoes (CFIA/ACIA 2343)
- 7.2.1 Transferability of a Record of Bulk Movement for Seed Potatoes
- 7.3 Forms Used by Growers Participating in the SPTQMP
- 7.4 Forms Issued by CFIA inspectors in Relation to the SPTQMP
The Contact for the review of this document will be the National Manager of the Potato Section, Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA).
Review
The inspection procedure – seed potato tuber shall be reviewed every 3 years, or as required by the Potato Section. The next review date is August, 2017.
Endorsem*nt
Approved by:
Project Coordinator, Quality System Document Committee
(date)
Chief Plant Health Officer
(date)
Amendment Record
Amendments to this document will be given consecutive numbers. Amendments to this document will be posted on the CFIA Intranet. With hardcopy documents, insert all amendments, remove obsolete pages and ensure the record below is completed.
Number of amendment: | Amended by: | Date of submission for approval: | Summary of amendment and number of amended section(s): |
---|---|---|---|
4 | Peter Volney | Feb, 2015 |
|
Distribution
The most up to date version of this document will be maintained on the CFIA external website and distributed to participants in the SPTQMP. In addition, the signed original will be maintained in the Directors office and the master electronic copy will be kept in RDIMS.
Introduction
Once a seed potato crop has been entered into the Canadian Seed Potato Certification Program it is inspected to determine regulatory compliance with the standards outlined in the Seeds Regulations PartII, under the authority of the Seeds Act. Inspection is comprised of both field inspection of the growing crop and tuber inspection of graded seed potatoes. This Inspection Procedure (PI) covers tuber inspections and has been developed to provide guidance to growers and designated representatives participating in the Seed Potato Tuber Quality Management Program (SPTQMP) as well as CFIA inspectors conducting SPTQMP audit.
Inspectors must consult chapter 8 & 9 of the Seed Potato Inspection Manual (PI-005) for inspections conducted by the CFIA on shipments that are not eligible to be shipped under the SPTQMP.
Packagers must not be involved in the packaging of table or processing potatoes produced by a non-seed grower unless all the equipment used in transporting, handling and packaging the potatoes has been cleaned and disinfected under the supervision of a CFIA inspector. The CFIA inspector witnessing the cleaning and disinfection must issue a Disinfection Report (CFIA/ACIA 2415) before seed potatoes are received by the packing facility.
If a facility wishes to pack seed potatoes and pack non-seed potatoes at the same time, there must be proper segregation at all times between the seed and non-seed potatoes and the measures used to segregate the potatoes must be approved by the CFIA. All equipment used in transporting, handling and packaging the potatoes must be segregated and must be cleaned and disinfected under the supervision of a CFIA inspector prior to its use for seed potatoes. If proper segregation is not maintained between seed and non-seed potatoes at all times during the process the seed lots handled by the facility may lose their certification as seed.
An inspector must issue a Certification of Authorization (CFIA\ACIA 4378) for domestic shipments of non-registered varieties sold in bags. The producer is responsible for labelling the bags or containers of the non-registered variety; the minimum requirements for these labels are that they list grower or farm unit name, variety, class and certification number.
Scope
This procedure is intended to provide guidance in the inspection of graded seed potato tubers to determine if the seed potato tubers are within the tolerances for size, defects and varietal mixtures as per the Seeds Regulations PartII. It explains the process for identifying, scoring and recording defects, such that the efficiency of the grading operation may be evaluated, allowing the inspector or the participant in the SPTQMP to ultimately determine product acceptability. Other topics covered include packaging, repackaging requirements and documents used in the seed potato certification program.
1.0 References
Potato Field Guide, Insects, Diseases and Defects, Publication 823, Eugenia Banks, 2004, Ministry of Agriculture and Food, Queens Printer for Ontario, Toronto, Ontario.
Seeds Act
Seeds Regulations PartII - Seed Potatoes
PI-005 – Seed Potato Inspection Manual
D-06-04 – Seed Potato Tuber Quality Management Program (SPTQMP)
2.0 Definitions, Abbreviations and Acronyms
Definitions for terms can be found in the Plant Health Glossary of Terms.
3.0 Regulatory Tolerances for Seed Potato Tubers
Appendix 1 lists tolerances for size, defects and varietal mixtures as stipulated in the Section 48 of the Seeds Regulations PartII. All classes of seed potatoes, with the exception of Nuclear Stock class, must be graded to meet the regulatory requirements in Section 48 of the Seeds Regulations PartII. In the case of potato eyes and cut-seed pieces, tubers must meet the grade tolerance prior to cutting. Depending on the nature of the defect, there may be an increased tolerance at the destination over the shipping point. Defects are generally classed as either permanent or conditional defects as explained in section 3.1.
There may be special circ*mstances where there is an overall shortage of a specific variety or class of seed potatoes and a lot of such a variety or class of seed potatoes does not meet the standards set out in the Seeds Regulations PartII, due to the existence of a single mechanical or physiological defect that cannot be graded easily to the standard without significant loss. In this situation potatoes may be inspected under the SPTQMP, however, the seed potatoes can only be sold within Canada based on a purchaser's agreement and may only move if the CFIA issues a Special Permission for Sale of Seed Potatoes Not Eligible for Official Tags (CFIA/ACIA1278) to the grower. Growers must contact their local office to request issuance of this type of permit under these circ*mstances.
This permit is only for a single mechanical or physiological defect and cannot be used in conjunction with a shipment of seed potatoes that are over tolerance for any disease caused by a pathogen, e.g. scab, Rhizoctonia, silver scurf, black dot, dry rot, wet rot, etc. In addition, growers must comply with regulatory requirements for Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. sepedonicus, the bacterial pathogen that causes bacterial ring rot (BRR), testing as per Seeds Regulations PartII and directive D-97-12 Seed potato certification program – Bacterial ring rot testing program for field grown seed potatoes.
3.1 Defects
Permanent defects do not progress over time; they are consistent from shipping point to destination. Examples of permanent defects include, but are not limited to: insect injury, grass root injury, growth cracks, hollow heart, mechanical damage (e.g. digger cuts), Rhizoctonia, scab, russetting, skin spot, and sunburn.
Condition defects may progress during transit and reflect the perishable nature of seed potatoes. At shipping point, these defects may not be present or may not be evident, but as the potatoes are handled during shipment, or over time, they may be subjected to conditions which allow symptom expression in excess of permitted tolerances. At destination, some of these defects are provided with increased tolerances to allow for the potential of disease development in transit. Examples of condition defects include: blackleg, blight, air cracks, bruises, soft and dry rot, external discolouration, internal discolouration, freezing and chilling injuries, greening, silver scurf, skin cracks, spraingFootnote1, and sprouts.
Quarantine pests and regulated non-quarantine pests: A quarantine pest is a pest of potential economic importance to the area endangered thereby and not yet present there, or present but not widely distributed and being officially controlled (International Plant Protection Convention – International Standard for Phytosanitary Measures – (ISPM) No.5). Examples of quarantine pests of potato in Canada include the causal agents for Potato Wart, Brown Rot and the Golden Nematode. There may be pests of economic importance which are regulated, but not on the quarantine pest list. Examples of regulated non-quarantine potato pests for Canada are the causal agents for Bacterial Ring Rot (BRR) and Potato Spindle Tuber Viroid; these agents have a zero tolerance in the Canadian Seed Potato Certification System, Rhizoctonia, Scab, Wet rot Dry Rot, etc. which have specified tolerances. See appendix 1 Standards for Tubers – Seeds Regulations PartII.
3.2 Varietal Purity
Seed potato tubers in a certified lot are required to be true to variety, with an increased tolerance for foreign tubers (i.e., tubers that are not of the variety being inspected) in seed lots of the lower generation classes. Any tuber of a variety other than that declared as the lot variety, which is found during the inspection of selected samples must be scored as "foreign". The percentage of "foreign" tubers in a lot shall not exceed the percentage permitted for that class as per the Seeds Regulations PartII (refer to Appendix 1 for tolerances).
Note: Varietal characteristics, fluctuations in growing conditions and growing seasons may affect tuber shape (round, oval, long, oblong, elliptical, etc.). Tuber shape may also vary if the potatoes are harvested early. For example, small long types are often round when dug before full maturity.
3.3 Tuber Cleanliness
The Seeds Regulations PartII specifies that no seed tubers shall be washed. This is intended to prevent the establishment of a suitable environment for the development of pathogenic organisms such as bacteria and fungi. If the potatoes have been washed, they are no longer eligible for certification as seed potatoes in Canada. Brushing the tubers is allowed, and when it is performed properly, it does not provide for a suitable environment for disease development.
Tuber cleanliness and freedom from excess soil is a serious issue, both domestically and for many importing countries, since soil can vector many disease pathogens of quarantine significance. Although many countries have strict tolerances for adhering soil, in the Seeds Regulations PartII, there are no set tolerances for soil. However, a grower or his representative should pay special attention to excessive soil presence and, whenever possible, measures should be taken to maintain soil presence below 1%, by weight.
4.0 Tuber Inspection Procedures
Methods for sampling and evaluating tubers are detailed in this section. Detailed information and visual aids to assist in evaluating the tuber diseases, defects and conditions to the required tolerances are found as appendices to this manual.
Presence of soil can interfere with the accuracy of an inspection. Therefore, it is necessary for selected tubers to be sufficiently clean to allow for a visual inspection to be performed. An accurate assessment of a graded shipment cannot be made during an inspection until excess soil is removed from the tubers.
In the case of shipments bound for other international destinations, country-specific tolerances for the presence of soil may apply. It falls under the responsibility of CFIA staff to assess the compliance of a seed potato shipment against the importing countries' requirements.
4.1 Inspection Frequency and Sampling Rates
Tuber samples must be collected so that they are representative of the entire volume being sampled. All shipments under the SPTQMP shall be inspected at the rate outlined in the Appendix 2A. For a shipment to qualify for the reduced sampling rate (0.1% by weight or 250 Tubers), a commercial sized shipment from the same lot must have been inspected and have met the tuber standard within the last 30 days. If no other shipment from the lot has been inspected and met the tuber standard within the last 30 days the sampling rate is 0.5% by weight or 1000 tubers. Any shipment of one MT or greater can be considered a commercial sized shipment.
Tuber inspections not eligible under the SPTQMP must be inspected by the CFIA as per chapter 8 of the Seed Potato Inspection Manual (PI-005) and this document.
The grower or designated representative must choose a method for determining how large a sample to gather, either the percentage by weight or tuber count. A sampling strategy ensures a representative sample is obtained and reflects the total graded shipment. The ideal sample should be randomly selected, accurate, repeatable, and must be randomly drawn from across the entire volume being sampled. The method for drawing the sample will differ between facilities depending on operational practices.
The person taking the sample should take the total sample as a series of sub-samples from a minimum of five points across the total volume being sampled. If a sub-sample container (e.g. a 5 gallon plastic bucket or a wire basket) is being used, once the container has been filled, the contents should be counted or weighed to determine the number of sub-samples needed to equal the total sample required.
Example; If the sub-sample container holds 50 tubers, a total of 20 sub-samples would be required for a 1000 tuber total sample. Weigh the tubers in several of the 50 tuber sub-samples to determine an averagekg/sub-sample in order to calculate percentages of oversize and undersized.
While counting tubers to obtain the required sample size as per Seed Potato Tuber Quality Management Program D-06-04, one can evaluate and set aside diseased and defective tubers as detailed in section 4.2.
4.2 Evaluating and Scoring Tuber Samples
In preparation for inspection, assemble any required inspection materials i.e. knives, tuber sizers with square openings, scales, gloves, disinfectant, hand sprayers, etc. Inspection requires detailed examination of a sample of tubers and should be done on a hand rack or grading table in an area with adequate lighting for the evaluation process. Adequate lighting for visual inspection is generally quantified as a minimum of 540 lux. In order to evaluate the adequacy of the lighting, consider that 540 lux is the midrange of acceptable lighting for an office environment, and that under which one can comfortably read finely printed text. 540 lux is the equivalent to the light produced by 3 clear 100 watt incandescent light bulbs spaced 50 cm apart and placed 1 meter above the grading surface or two 48 inch 40 watt fluorescent bulbs in a standard fixture with a reflector placed horizontally 1 meter above the grading surface.
Assess the lot for compliance with Section 48 of the Seeds Regulations, PartII (see Appendix 1). From here on in Section 48 of the Seeds Regulations, PartII will be referred to as the tuber standard. The flow chart in Appendix 2B details the various steps involved in the inspection process and should be referred to in conjunction with this section.
- First appearances can be a determining factor in the inspection process i.e. damp and dirty tubers may require more time to inspect. Scan the entire sample for obvious potential problems i.e. severe scab, rhizoctonia, soft rots, oversized or undersized tubers etc.
- Using the evaluation guide (Appendix 11) and sizers with square openings determine the percentage by weight of the oversized and undersized tubers, and enter the value in the Seed Potato Tuber Inspection Report. After the tubers have been assessed for size the tuber sample/ subsample should be returned to the sample used to asses tuber defects.
- While counting tubers during the sampling process, set aside any tubers which appear to have defects. Appendices to this manual may be used to aid in assessing tuber defects to be scored on the Seed Potato Tuber Inspection Report.
- Observation of any non-scoreable defects which may affect the quality of the tubers should be noted under the Comments section of the Seed Potato Tuber Inspection Report. This will assist in preventing additional problems in the future (i.e. stones, excessive dirt, etc.).
- Some tubers of this sample must be cut to establish the presence or absence of internal discolouration. Tuber cutting and sampling for internal defects is detailed in section 4.3.
- During visual inspection of tubers, record the sample size, and count for each defect in the Seed Potato Tuber Inspection Report.
- Never score the same tuber twice for defects. A tuber with multiple scoreable defects must always be scored for the defect that has the lowest tolerance in the Seeds Regulations PartII. If the defects have the same tolerance in the Seeds Regulations PartII, the tuber must be scored for the defect that affects the largest surface area of the tuber. Size is not considered a defect and is scored by % weight and therefore separately from the defects which are scored by % count.
Calculate total counts and percentages for each defect and compare with the tuber standard tolerance to determine if the lot meets the tuber standard. If the sample exceeds the tolerance for any of the categories, proceed to either resample a greater sample size, or re-grade the shipment as required. For details on re-sampling, growers or designated representatives should consult Appendix 2A for requirements. Under no circ*mstances a shipment not meeting the tuber standard tolerance for defects and conditions should be allowed to proceed with tags or a RBM under the SPTQMP.
4.3 Sampling and Cutting Procedure for Internal Necrosis
In order to assess tuber samples against the tolerance for internal necrosis a sub-sample of tubers must be cut and examined internally. In drawing the sub-sample as described below, no tuber shall be scored for defects twice. Stem end discolouration is entered in box 21 of the Tuber Inspection Report CFIA ACIA 3076. If internal discolouration and stem-end discolouration are found they are scored under stem end discolouration and damage.
- After scoring the whole sample for all other defects, collect tubers randomly from the un-scored tubers in the sample to create a sub-sample of at least 50 tubers on the initial inspection of a shipment.
- Using the appendices to this manual as a guide for identifying internal defects, every specimen from the sub sample should be cut along the longitudinal axis, drawn through the widest part of the tuber (i.e. from the stem end to the bud end), and examined for internal defects.
- If internal necrosis is found, an additional sample must be drawn and cut to bring the total number of tubers to at least 200. The sample number may be increased, if desired, in order to obtain a larger, more statistically significant sample.
- If internal discolouration or stem end discolouration are observed they are counted out of the total tuber sample and scored under stem end discolouration and damage respectively
- If all the previous inspections conducted on a specific seed lot have been within tolerance for internal necrosis, a minimum of 25 tubers may be taken on subsequent inspections of the same lot to verify the shipment is within the tolerance for internal necrosis.
- Internal necrosis must be scored and this information must be captured in the Seed Potato Tuber Inspection Report. If a tuber does not show signs of internal necrosis and internal discolouration is present, it should be scored under damage. No tuber shall be scored twice for defects.
- Calculate the percentage of tubers that display internal necrosis based on the total number of cut tubers only (25, 50 or 200 tubers) and enter all results in the Seed Potato Tuber Inspection Report In the calculation on the Seed Potato Tuber Inspection Report this number is added to the score for all other defects scored under the Malformed and Damage tolerance.
4.4 Method of Cutting to Determine Depth of Penetration
The scoring of some internal and external tuber defects is dependent on the depth of penetration into the tuber. In some cases when a defect penetrates into the flesh, it is implied that the defect is of a more serious nature and should be rated accordingly. The procedure for determining the depth of penetration is to first make a straight cut at 6mm deep across the potato from the external surface of the defect, to remove all or most of the surface damage. If the damage is still present in the tuber flesh, then cut another 7mm off the tuber (a total of 13mm between the 2 cuts) to determine the full extent of the damage. The depth of penetration is a general indication of the severity of the defect and where it is scored. An example of this is stem end discolouration which is only scored if penetrates the flesh more than 6mm and less than 13mm. If the stem end discolouration penetrates less than 6mm it is not scored for stem end discolouration. If the defect is greater than 13mm in depth the tuber is scored under internal discolouration.
< 6mm | 6mm to 13mm | >13mm |
---|---|---|
not scored | stem end discoloration | internal discolouration |
5.0 Packaging and Repackaging Requirements
When potatoes are not shipped in bulk, they are packed in various types of containers such as jute or woven poly sacks, crates, barrels, cartons and totes. Section 54 of the Seeds Regulations PartII specifies packaging and marking requirements for seed potatoes. Seed potatoes may be repackaged for a variety of reasons such as resale for home or garden use; Section 55 of the Seeds Regulations PartII, specifies requirements for the repackaging of seed potatoes.
An inspector must issue a Certification of Authorization for any domestic shipment of non-registered varieties sold in bulk.
5.1 Packages
There are no standard container sizes for seed potatoes. However, shipments usually occur in the following unit sizes:
- 50lb. (22.7kg)
- 55lb. (25.0kg)
- 75lb. (34.1kg)
- 100lb. (45.4kg)
- 110lb. (50.0kg)
All seed potatoes sold in packages shall be packed in containers that meet all of the following conditions:
- Contain not less than 20kgFootnote2,
- Are new,
- Are closed after packaging,
- Bear no markings that refer to non-certified potatoes or are likely to result in the potatoes being mixed with or mistaken for any potatoes other than certified seed potatoes,
- Have a Seed Potato Certification Tag (one of the following: CFIA 1370, 2111, 2113) attached to each container or a Certification of Authorization (CFIA/ACIA 4378) in the case of unregistered varieties.
The CFIA recommends that conveyance (truck bed, trailer, etc.) used to transport the bagged seed potatoes be cleaned and disinfected with a pest control product that is effective in the control of Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. sepedonicus prior to loading.
5.2 Bulk
Records of Bulk Movement (RBM) for Seed Potatoes (CFIA/ACIA 2343) are used to document the movement of seed potato shipments in bulk. The RBMs can be used to document the domestic bulk shipments of registered varieties. When multiple lots are shipped in a single bulk load a grower supplied label meeting the requirements specified below, must be securely affixed to each of the containers, to assist in lot identification for bulk containers such as mini-totes. Except if otherwise stated, a RBM must accompany every shipment.
Note: For domestic shipments moving within the province where the seed lot was produced, a single RBM may be issued for the total volume of a seed lot delivered to a single consignee within a seven day period. The grower or designated representative must provide the consignee within their province with a RBM within seven days of the initial shipment that is covered by the RBM or earlier if requested by the CFIA.
All labels used to identify bulk containers in a shipment must have the following information clearly printed on it;
- Grower or Farm Unit name
- Variety
- Class
- Certification number
Bulk containers that are not new must be washed and disinfected with a disinfectant registered in Canada to be used for the pathogen that causes Bacterial Ring Rot (BRR) (as per the Seeds Regulations PartII, Section 56 (4) (f), "grower's declaration" relating to bulk shipments). Growers who choose to wash and reuse bulk tote bags or containers must submit in writing to the CFIA details of the cleaning and disinfection protocol they intend to follow for approval. The local CFIA staff will review the protocol to determine whether the risk of spread for potato pests is sufficiently mitigated by the proposed protocol.
Prior to loading, the conveyance (truck bed, trailer, etc.) used to transport the seed potatoes in tote bags must be cleaned and disinfected with a pest control product that is effective in the control of Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. sepedonicus.
5.3 Repackaging
Seed potatoes which are packaged under Section 54 of the Seeds Regulations, PartII, (as detailed in section 5.1) may be repackaged. When requested by a packer, the CFIA may issue a Permit Relating to Packing of Seed Potatoes (CFIA/ACIA 1347) which allows for the repackaging of seed potatoes in containers that contain less than 20kg. Several containers are used for sale for home garden use.
These include:
- 2.2lb. (1.0kg)
- 5lb. (2.27kg)
- 10lb. (4.54kg)
- 20lb. (9.07kg)
When a request for a permit has been received, a CFIA inspector will arrange for a time to meet with the packer and conduct a facility inspection. The following elements will be considered:
- That the packer is not involved in the packaging of non-seed potatoes from a non-seed grower or proper segregation between the seed potatoes and the non-seed is maintained. See section 5.1 for more information on segregation of facilities
- That equipment used in repackaging of seed potatoes has been cleaned and disinfected to the satisfaction of the CFIA inspector, prior to use. The CFIA inspector witnessing the cleaning and disinfection must issue a Disinfection Report (CFIA/ACIA 2415) before seed potatoes are received by the repackaging facility.
- The packer will be informed of his/her responsibility to collect and return all documentation associated with the original shipments to the inspector issuing the permit.
- The inspector will provide the packer with a copy of Section 54 and 55 of the Seeds Regulations, PartII as well as information on tuber inspection and grade standards.
If conditions are met to the satisfaction of a CFIA inspector and a Disinfection Report (CFIA/ACIA 2415) has been issued, a Permit Relating to Packing of Seed Potatoes (CFIA/ACIA 1347) will be issued by the CFIA. A Permit Relating to Packing of Seed Potatoes (CFIA/ACIA 1347) is valid for a maximum of one year. Seed potatoes must be repackaged in new containers. Official seed potato tags are not issued by the CFIA for seed potatoes packaged in containers less than 20kg but the containers must be clearly labelled to show:
- The name and address of the packager
- The class, size (inmm) and variety of the potatoes (non-registered varieties may not be packaged for resale in Canada)
- The seed potato lot certification number.
There is no provision in the Seeds Regulations for the repackaging of Nuclear Stock class seed potatoes.
Seed potatoes which are imported from the US to be repackaged must meet the import requirements as defined in the Plant Protection Act, the Plant Protection Regulations and directive D-98-01: Import Requirements for Seed Potatoes and Other Potato Propagative Material
If seed potatoes are imported from the US for the purpose of repackaging, they must meet the Canadian repackaging requirements, be repackaged in new containers and labelled to show:
- The name and address of the packager
- The variety of the seed potatoes
- The name of the state in which the seed potatoes were grown
- The certification number of the crop.
6.0 Requesting a Reinspection of a Shipment
Any person who receives a shipment of seed potatoes whether they are a seed potato grower or not, may request that CFIA conduct a reinspection of a shipment as per paragraph 60.1(2) of the Seeds Regulations PartII.
The request for re-inspection must be made to the CFIA within two working days of receipt of the shipment in question. Individuals who receive seed potatoes are encouraged to examine each shipment closely upon receipt and contact the local CFIA office within the specified timeframe if it is suspected that the shipment does not comply with the tuber grade sizes, tuber standards or packaging requirements.
7.0 Documents Used in the Seed Potato Certification Program
Section 7.3 is a comprehensive list of forms used in the SPTQMP; some of these forms shall be issued exclusively by the CFIA. Under the Seed Potato Tuber Quality Management Program (SPTQMP), growers will record tuber inspection results on the Seed Potato Tuber Inspection Report (Appendix 14), and may issue both Seed Potato Certification Tags (CFIA/ACIA 1370, 2111, 2113), and Record of Bulk Movement for Seed Potatoes (CFIA/ACIA 2343), as detailed in section 7.1 and 7.2. Growers under the SPTQMP should consult D-06-04 for instructions and information on obtaining required seed potato certification documents from their local CFIA inspection office.
It should be noted that if seed potatoes are sold in bulk for the purpose of packaging and resale, they are not required to be graded when a Permit for Bulk Movement of Seed Potatoes for Packaging and Resale (CFIA/ACIA 4383) has been issued to a grower by the CFIA. Instead, the packager must perform the grading prior to packaging and document issuance before resale or delivery to another farm unit. Before the originating farm unit participating in the SPTQMP may ship un-graded potatoes to another farm unit participating in the SPTQMP the grower from the originating licensed farm unit must have a Permit for Bulk Movement of Seed Potatoes for Packaging and Resale (CFIA/ACIA 4383) and list the other farm unit as a designated representative under the SPTQMP.
7.1 Seed Potato Certification Tags
Seed Potato Certification Tags (CFIA/ACIA 1370, 2111, 2113) (tags) are used to identify shipments in packages greater than 20kg and they are only used for registered varieties shipped domestically or any variety shipped to internationally. Prior to affixing tags to any container, the grower or the designated representative is responsible for verifying that the tubers in the container meet the tuber standards under the Seeds Regulations PartII. Tags provide a record to the purchaser of the variety and class of seed purchased and are used as proof for re-certification purposes, or other purposes as required under the authority of the Seeds Act or Provincial regulations.
Every certification tag shall contain the following information;
- class, variety and size (inmm)Footnote3 of the seed potatoes;
- crop certificate number;
- date of printing
- any additional information that is necessary to meet the requirements for the country that will be importing the seed potatoes (if applicable)
Additionally seed tags must contain the declaration below as specified in section 53.5(e) of the Seeds Regulations PartII. This is pre-printed directly on the reverse side of the tags:
"THE GROWER declares that the seed potatoes contained in this shipment are from the crop for which a crop certificate was issued bearing the crop certificate number shown on this tag and that they are graded in accordance with section 48 and subsections 48.1(2) to (10) of the Seeds Regulations.
A request for re-inspection of the seed potato lot may be made to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency within two working days after receipt of the lot.
NOTE: Inspection for the purpose of certification was made either visually or through laboratory testing of samples, or both. Certification does not constitute a warranty, by either the Canadian Food Inspection Agency or the grower, that the seed potatoes meet the applicable standards set out in sections 47.11 to 47.8 of the Seeds Regulations."
Sample seed potato certification tags for Elite (CFIA/ACIA 2113), Foundation (CFIA/ACIA 1370), and Certified (CFIA/ACIA 2111) classes are found in Appendix 12.
7.2 Record of Bulk Movement for Seed Potatoes (CFIA/ACIA 2343)
A Record of Bulk Movement for Seed Potatoes (CFIA/ACIA 2343) (RBM) is used to identify certified seed potatoes shipped in bulk as well as seed potatoes shipped in mini bulk/tote bags. If multiple lots are shipped in a single bulk load, a grower supplied tag meeting the requirements specified below, must be securely affixed to each of the containers, to assist in lot identification for bulk containers such as mini-totes. For more information on labelling requirements of tote bags, see section 5.1.1. Prior to RBM issuance, it must be verified that seed tubers meet the tuber tolerances under the Seeds Regulations PartII and they are not of an unregistered variety when shipped domestically. The RBM is a controlled document which provides proof of a lot's certification origin, and is used for recertification purposes, or other purposes as required under the authority of the Seeds Act or Provincial regulations.
Every RBM shall contain the following information;
- weight, class, variety, size (inmm)Footnote4 and quantity of the seed potatoes;
- crop certificate number;
- the name and address of both the consigneeFootnote5 (purchaser), and grower or representativeFootnote6
- signature of the grower or representative
- date of signature
- additional information to meet importing country requirements (if applicable)
Before the RBMs are completed they must be kept under the secure control of the grower or designated representative(s) and must not be made available to any party other than the CFIA.
Additionally the RBM must contain the declaration below as specified in section 53.5(e) of the Seeds Regulations PartII. This is pre-printed directly on the RBM certificate.
"THE GROWER declares that the seed potatoes contained in this shipment are from the crop for which a crop certificate was issued bearing the crop certificate number shown on this record of bulk movement and that they are graded in accordance with section 48 and subsections 48.1(2) to (10) of the Seeds Regulations.
THE GROWER declares that the vehicle carrying this shipment was disinfected, before loading, with a control product registered under the Pest Control Products Act for use against Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. sepedonicus.
A request for re-inspection of the seed potato lot may be made to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency within two working days after receipt of the lot.
NOTE: Inspection for the purpose of certification was made either visually or through laboratory testing of samples, or both. Certification does not constitute a warranty, by either the Canadian Food Inspection Agency or the grower, that the seed potatoes meet the applicable standards set out in sections 47.11 to 47.8 of the Seeds Regulations."
A sample Record of Bulk Movement for Seed Potatoes (CFIA/ACIA 2343) is found as Appendix 16.
7.2.1 Transferability of a Record of Bulk Movement for Seed Potatoes
Section 56(5) of the Seeds Regulations PartII states that, "a Record of Bulk Movement is not transferable." This means that if a shipment of potatoes is moving under a RBM the shipment must go to the location stated as the purchaser (consignee). If the shipment covered by the RBM is being transferred to another location other than the stated purchaser and traceability of the shipment has been maintained, the RBM must be returned to the seller and a new RBM must be issued stating the name and address of the new location.
Note: The RBM cannot be withheld by the seller for any reason once movement has been completed for any amount of seed.
7.3 Forms Used by Growers Participating in the SPTQMP
The following is an alphabetical list of forms used by growers participating in the SPTQMP.
Application for a Licence to Use Seed Potato Certification Tags and Record of Bulk Movement for Seed Potatoes (Appendix 1, D-06-04)
This form is used by a grower to apply for the SPTQMP and to request changes to conditions of the grower's licence.
Designated Representatives List- SPTQMP (Appendix 2, D-06-04)
This form is used by growers to designate representatives under the SPTQMP and notify the CFIA that an individual has been identified as a designated representative.
Record of Bulk Movement for Seed Potatoes (CFIA/ACIA 2343)
A certificate issued by the grower, designated representative participating in the SPTQMP or a CFIA inspector authorizing the sale and transport of seed potatoes in bulk. This form is used to permit movement of graded registered varieties within Canada and all varieties for export.
Request for Seed Potato Certification Tags or Record of Bulk Movement for Seed Potatoes (Appendix 4, D-06-04)
This form is used by growers and designated representatives participating in the SPTQMP to request tags or Record of Bulk Movement for Seed Potatoes certificates from the CFIA. The growers and designated representatives may use their own forms to request tags as long as they meet the requirements of the CFIA.
Seed Potato Certification Tags: Elite (CFIA/ACIA 2113), Foundation (CFIA/ACIA 1370), Certified (CFIA/ACIA 2111)
Certificates that are issued by the grower, designated representative participating in the SPTQMP or a CFIA inspector and are attached to containers of seed potatoes greater than 20kg to identify class, variety and lot.
Seed Potato Tuber Inspection Report (CFIA/ACIA 3076 / Appendix 14)
Used with all tuber inspections by CFIA inspectors and growers or designated representatives participating in the SPTQMP to record the tuber conditions of the lot being assessed. The growers and designated representatives may use other forms to record the tuber inspection results as long as they meet the requirements of the CFIA. CFIA inspectors may only use the Seed Potato Tuber Inspection Report CFIA 3076 to record inspection results. Also, additional information and observations such as maps, diagrams, and narrative descriptions should also be noted on the Seed Potato Tuber Inspection Report CFIA 3076 form during harvest/bin inspections and re-inspections.
Shipment Record Log -Record of Bulk Movement for Seed Potatoes: SPTQMP (Appendix 6, D-06-04)
This form is used by growers and designated representatives participating in the SPTQMP to keep track of the issuance of Record of Bulk Movement for Seed Potatoes under a grower's licence. Growers and designated representatives may develop their own shipment record log to record the required information as long as they meet the requirements of the CFIA.
Shipment Record Log- Seed Potato Certification Tags: SPTQMP (Appendix 5, D-06-04)
This form is used by growers and designated representatives participating in the SPTQMP to keep track of the issuance of tags under a grower's licence. Growers and designated representatives may develop their own shipment record log to record the required information as long as they meet the requirements of the CFIA.
7.4 Forms Issued by CFIA inspectors in Relation to the SPTQMP
The following is an alphabetical list of forms used by CFIA inspectors in relation to the SPTQMP.
Audit Report: SPTQMP
This form is used by CFIA inspectors to record the details of audit findings for farms participating in the SPTQMP.
Certification of Authorization (CFIA/ACIA 4378)
This form is issued by a CFIA inspector; it permits the movement, between farm units in Canada, of seed potatoes of a non-registered variety for which a crop certificate has been issued.
Corrective Action Request: SPTQMP
This form is issued by inspectors to document deficiencies in the application of the SPTQMP on a farm unit and to ask a grower to correct the identified deficiency. Growers may use this form to respond to the inspector's request for a corrective action.
Disinfection Report (CFIA/ACIA 2415)
This report is issued by a CFIA inspector to document the disinfection of equipment at a farm or a facility handling seed potatoes.
Growing Crop Certificate (CFIA/ACIA 1318)
This certificate is issued by the CFIA when an inspector certifies a seed potato crop. This certificate specifies the variety, class, area, and the certification number of every lot certified as seed potato on the farm unit. This is a single document to grant certification on all crops meeting the class standard for each applicant.
Licence to Use Seed Potato Certification Tags and Record of Bulk Movement for Seed Potatoes
A licence issued by a CFIA inspector authorizing the use of Seed Potato Certification Tags and Record of Bulk Movement Certificates. The licence also states the conditions that the grower must follow when using Seed Potato Certification Tags and Record of Bulk Movement Certificates.
Notification of a Change in the Status of a Licence to Use Seed Potato Certification Tags and Record of Bulk Movement for Seed Potatoes
This form is issued by a CFIA inspector to notify applicants and participants of changes in their licence status or the denial of a licence application.
Permit for Bulk Movement of Seed Potatoes for Packaging and Resale (CFIA/ACIA 4383)
A permit issued by a CFIA inspector authorizing the movement of seed potatoes that are sold in bulk for the purpose of packaging and resale and are not required to be graded by the grower. The packager must do the grading prior to packaging and resale.
Permit Relating to Packing of Seed Potatoes (CFIA/ACIA 1347)
A permit issued by a CFIA inspector authorizing the packing and repackaging of seed potatoes.
Special Permission for Sale of Seed Potatoes not Eligible for Official Tags (CFIA/ACIA 1278)
A document issued by a CFIA inspector granting permission to a seed potato grower for the sale of seed potatoes of any class having a single defect or damage in excess of established tuber standard. These defects are limited to mechanical and physiological tuber damage. This option should be only used for sales of seed within Canada and for varieties in short supply or other special situations, as determined and approved by the CFIA.
Appendix 1: Standards for Tubers – Seeds Regulations Part II
Disease or Defect | Tolerance by Count at Shipping Point | Tolerance by Count at Destination |
---|---|---|
Soft rot or wet breakdown | 0.1 % | 0.5 % |
Dry rot, including late blight | 1.0 % | 1.0 % |
Scab and Rhizoctonia combinedTable Note7
| 10.0 % | 10.0 % |
Stem-end discolouration due to top-killing, frost, heat or drought, with penetration from 6 mm to 13 mm | 4.0 % | 4.0 % |
Malformed and damage | 2.0 % | 3.0 % |
Total number of diseases and defectsTable Note8 | 5.0 % | 5.0 % |
Table Notes
- Table Note 7
-
The total of the combined light, and combined moderate Scab and Rhizoctonia categories must not exceed 10%. No severe Scab or Rhizoctonia is allowed.
Return to table note7referrer
- Table Note 8
-
The total of combined tolerances for diseases and defects (not including light scab, light Rhizoctonia and stem-end discolouration), shall not exceed 5% of the total number of tubers in the lot.
Return to table note8referrer
Condition | Tolerance by Count |
---|---|
Tubers that are not firm | 2.0 % |
Outgrown sprouts (exceeding 20 mm) | 10.0 % |
Pressure bruises | 5.0 % |
Oversize and undersize | 5.0 % by weight |
Varietal Mixture | Tolerance by Count |
---|---|
Nuclear | 0.0% |
Pre-Elite | 0.0% |
Elite I | 0.0% |
Elite II | 0.0% |
Elite III | 0.05 % |
Elite IV | 0.1 % |
Foundation | 0.2 % |
Certified | 0.5 % |
Note: Descriptions and tolerances are for reference only; refer to Seeds Regulations PartII for complete information
Appendix 2
2a: Process for Domestic Seed Potato Shipments: SPTQMP
2b: Domestic Seed Potato Inspection Process: SPTQMP
Appendix 3: Soft Rot or Wet Breakdown
Causal agents:
Soft rot or wet breakdown is the general term used to describe tuber decomposition which may involve one or more fungi and/or bacterial agents. Soft rot may also be induced by mechanical or physical damage to the tuber such as by frost injury (1), freezing and chilling injuries (2) and bruising, and subsequent infection. Freezing injury most often shows a complete break down and watery rot of affected tubers. Tubers which have been exposed to freezing temperatures and allowed to warm up for 1 week to 10 days usually express classic symptoms of soft rot. Pathogenic agents of soft rot may include: Fusarium spp. (3), Blackleg or bacterial soft rot - Pectobacterium carotovorum subsp. carotovorum (4, 5), Early blight - Alternaria solani, Late Blight - Phytophthora infestans, Leak fungus - Pythium ultimum var. ultimum (6), among many others. Certain pathogens may be causative agents of both soft rot and dry rot.
Scoring:
In scoring soft rot or wet breakdown it is not always necessary to identify the specific pathogen affecting the tuber. Images below are not representative of all symptoms which may be encountered; any soft, mushy breakdown, soft leaking specimens or soft and watery tissue must be scored under the tolerance for soft rot or wet breakdown. Refer to Seeds Regulations Part II for tolerances. Quarantine pests may exhibit similar symptoms to soft rot, consult additional resources for information.
Appendix 4: Dry Rot
Causal agents:
Dry rot is the term used to describe dry decomposition, usually starting in cuts, bruising or other injuries. Dry rot is most often caused by Fusarium spp. (7,8).Other conditions or pathogens may result in dry rot. White knot or Starch spot (9) is a bruising which appears as a hard white lump in the tuber flesh a few millimeters below the skin; this is similar to Black spot except the coloration is lacking. Both White knot and Black spot (10) start out as a bruising injury but may develop into a dry rot in severe cases. Additional pathogens resulting in dry rot include, Late blight - Phytophthora infestans (11), Early blight - Alternaria solani (12), Blackleg - Pectobacterium carotovorum subsp. carotovorum, as well as severe Skin Spot - Polyscytalum pustulans, among others. As well, mechanical and physiological damage which has dried, such as pressure bruising, or dried frost and freezing injuries often result in dry rot. In storage below 4°C, dry rot fungi in small lesions may remain dormant, however upon planting may be quickly attacked by soft rot bacteria which rot the tuber very quickly. Certain pathogens may be causative agents of both dry rot and soft rot.
Scoring:
As in the case of soft rot or wet breakdown, it is not always necessary to identify the specific pathogen affecting the tuber. Dry rot is scored under the dry rot tolerance when it affects the flesh of the potato and penetrates more than 6mm in depth or is less than 6mm in depth but covers more than 10% of the surface area. It may be slightly moist but not wet, and thus is not considered a "wet" rot. Refer to Seeds Regulations PartII for tolerances.
Appendix 5: Scab
5a: Powdery Scab
Causal agents:
Powdery scab is caused by the fungus Spongospora subterranea, which may survive for many years in the soil as resting spores. The fungus attacks roots, stolons, young shoots and tubers of the developing plant, and may penetrate tubers through lenticels or wounds. It is generally spread by planting infected tubers, moving or spreading contaminated soil or manure. Motile spores of powdery scab can also vectors of Potato Mop Top Virus (PMTV).
Powdery Scab symptoms initially appear on young tubers as purplish-brown sunken lesions, developing into faintly brown raised areas which occur singularly or in patches. Within approximately one week, under ideal conditions these areas enlarge to about 6 mm. When mature, these pustules become yellow-brown to black. At harvest and in storage, the pustules dry and break down leaving circular to oval pits which are filled with brownish spore balls. Sometimes these pits can enlarge to form cankers in the tuber, in which a dry sunken rot may develop.
5b: Common Scab
Common Scab, Surface Scab, and Russet Scab are all caused by common soil bacterium, Streptomyces spp. which may survive in the soil for long periods of time even in the absence of potatoes. The bacteria are generally spread in the same manner as Powdery Scab by planting infected tubers, moving or spreading contaminated soil or manure. The strains which cause scab infections produce a toxin which results in the formation of lesions on the tuber. Initial symptoms are small reddish-brown lesions around the lenticels of young tubers. In ideal conditions, the lesions increase in size, turn dark and form circular scabbed areas that are either isolated or in large corky masses. They may be superficial spots or greatly roughened blotches. The scab will appear as both smooth and rough, or may be cracked.
5c: Scoring
Scoring:
For tuber grade tolerance, Scab is treated in the same manner and under the same tolerance as Rhizoctonia. The total amounts are combined under the same tolerance when both diseases are present. In general, all Scab is treated equally for domestic and some export destinations depending on their current import requirements. In order to approximate the percentage coverage of the tuber, the surface can be divided into three dimensional quadrants as illustrated below (25); each half of the tuber represents 50% of the surface area. The size of quadrant the lesions would occupy if all lesions were pooled into a single area of the tuber will help to determine the disease level for scoring purposes. Examples of trace to severe coverage, based on the exposed side of the tuber, are given below (26).
Description for photo 25
This image is made up of three pictures of the same brown potato. The first picture shows a potato with approximately 22 scabs. The second picture shows the same potato where the scabs have been digitally cut out of the picture leaving the rest of the potato in the picture. The third picture shows the cut out scabs from the picture superimposed on a silhouette of the potato. The scabs have all been grouped in the top left hand corner of the silhouette to show that they cover 12.5 % of the surface area.
Disease Level | Percentage Coverage |
---|---|
Trace | 0% - 1% |
Light | >1% - 5% |
Moderate | >5% - 10% |
Severe | >10% |
Appendix 6
6a: Rhizoctonia
Causal Agent:
Rhizoctonia solani (Black scurf; Rhizoctonia) is a common seed and soil borne fungus which survives as black resting structures called sclerotia. In the soil, the fungus can also survive as fungal threads, called mycelia on organic debris. Infections start when sclerotia in the soil or on seed tubers germinate, producing mycelia which colonize stems and roots near the seed piece. The pathogen enters tubers in storage by infecting lenticels, eyes, and skin. The fungus does not penetrate deeply into the tuber tissue. Pathogen growth on the exterior of the tuber can spread to other tubers in storage. The disease is favoured in tubers that are harvested late and stored under cool conditions. The fungus forms the characteristic black sclerotia (black scurf) on tuber surfaces before and after harvest. Planting seed potatoes infested with sclerotia increases the amount of Rhizoctonia inoculum in the soil. Rhizoctonia solani can survive in the soil for at least eight years.
Tuber Symptoms:
Rhizoctonia is identified by the presence of hard, black or dark brown sclerotia which adhere very tightly to the surface of the tubers, but do not penetrate the skin. Frequently referred to as "the dirt that will not wash off", sclerotia will vary in size from small specks to large masses up to 2.5cm across. Infected seed may exhibit brown lesions on sprouts.
6b: Rhizoctonia - Scoring
Scoring:
Rhizoctonia is rated in the same manner as scab and is scored either singly (if only one disease is present) or in combination with scab when both are present on the tubers being inspected. Refer to current tolerances as per Seeds Regulations PartII. In order to approximate the percentage coverage of the tuber, the surface can be divided into three dimensional quadrants where each half of the tuber represents 50% of the surface area (31). Both sides of the tuber are examined (32) and the disease level is estimated by the size of quadrant the sclerotia would occupy if pooled to a single area. Examples of trace to severe coverage are given below (33).
Description for 31
This image demonstrates the surface area percentages a defect can cover. The first tuber has a “50%” super imposed over it, in white, showing that the entire visible side of the tuber represents 50% of the total surface area.
The second tuber is divided with a black marker to show that ½ of the visible area of the potato represents "25%", 1/3 denotes "12.5%", 1/8 represents "6.25%", 1/16 of the potato signifies "3.13%", and 1/32 represents "1.57"”. Each marked area of the tuber has the corresponding percentage super imposed on it.
The third tuber is marked similarly to the second tuber but does not have the percentages marked on it.
Disease Level | Percentage Coverage |
---|---|
Trace | 0% - 1% |
Light | >1% - 5% |
Moderate | >5% - 10% |
Severe | >10% |
Appendix 7: Stem end discolouration
Stem end discolouration may be the result of various conditions, mainly heat necrosis, frost or drought. Treatments such as chemical vine killing may produce internal discolouration, usually resulting in a light brown, narrow ring in the flesh of transversely-cut tubers. General vascular discolouration may be caused by a number of biological factors including viral (e.g. net necrosis), fungal or bacterial. The symptoms are a slight discolouration of tissue below the stem-end, discolouration of the vascular ring appearing as slight netting, or in some cases a severe brown streaking through part of, or the entire vascular ring, sometimes extending nearly to the bud end of the tuber. Severe internal discolouration beyond the stem end (beyond 6-13mm) should be scored under Malformed and Damage.
Frost injury or frost necrosis appears as a net necrosis of tuber tissue. Fine, dark brown to grey streaks or strands occur in the vascular ring or generally throughout the tuber flesh, giving the impression of a network. If the netting is due to frost, there are usually various stages of breakdown. Most frost injury should be scored under soft rot or wet breakdown, however mild stem end discolouration due to frost may be scored under stem-end discolouration.
Scoring:
It is not necessary to identify the specific cause of stem end discolouration, but all stem end discoloration is scoreable under its own tolerance in the Seeds Regulations PartII. The shoulder must be removed to ensure the reference for measurements begin at the stem end. Penetration between 6-13mm at the stem end is scoreable. Cuts are made at the stem end of the tuber to determine the depth of penetration. If the discolouration extends beyond 13mm, it is scored as an Internal Discolouration under Malformed and Damaged.
Appendix 8: Malformed and Damage
8a: Malformed
Malformed
Malformed tubers may take different forms. The tuber may have been exposed to adverse environmental conditions, or have a physiological defect, resulting in a knobby (36), pointed (37), curved (38), creased (39), or dumbbell shaped (40) tuber. In general, irregularities in soil moisture and nutrients are the common environmental factors responsible for malformed tubers. Growth cracks (41, 42) in the tuber may be caused by very rapid growth, usually when a rainy period follows a long dry spell. Growth cracks most often occur towards the bud end of the tuber and usually extend lengthwise. The cracks vary in size but usually heal over with no rot following the injury. Herbicide damage (43, 44) may result in malformed tubers, depending on the developmental stage of the plants at the time of exposure. Herbicides residues may be remaining in the soil, or drift from adjacent fields.
Scoring:
Tubers are to be scored as malformed when they are significantly different in shape from a typical tuber representative of the variety. Growth cracks are scoreable when they materially affect the bud end of the tuber (affect eyes and are not shallow) or extend more than 2/3 the length of the tuber in the aggregate.
8b: Insect Damage
Insect Damage:
Some of the more common insects which may feed on, or cause scoreable damage to tubers are listed below.
Wireworm (click beetle) larvae (45, 46, 47), Agriotes obscurus, A. lineatus and A. sputator have overlapping life cycles, so that tuber damage can occur at any stage during tuber development. Early season injury occurs when the tubers are small and the larva causes deep, funnel-shaped cavities which form as the tubers mature. Mid-season injury results in the formation of pits 6 to 12 mm deep and 1.5 to 3 mm in diameter, sometimes lined with discolored scar tissue. Late season injury consists of clean cut round holes and scar tissue is not prominent.
Flea beetle, Epitrix tuberis, may cause surface injury, internal injury or both. Surface injury consists of pimple-like eruptions or rough, winding galleries (trails) approximately 3 mm wide and of varying length. Internal injury consists of single, or groups of narrow, brown slivers or feeding tunnels that extend into the tuber between 5 to 20 mm. Cracks may occur where these tunnels come together.
Grub damage (48, 49) is caused by the larvae of June beetles or cutworms (Polyphylla spp.). The earlier that feeding damage occurs during tuber development, the larger the affected area will be as the tuber develops. Damage consists of small to large feeding cavities between 5 to 20 mm or more in diameter. The irregular-shaped cavities usually are wider than they are deep, with characteristically rough ridges inside them. Half or more of the tuber can sometimes be consumed.
Insect feeding damage is scored under the Malformed and Damage tolerance when either:
- feeding damage exceeds an aggregate area of more than 10% of the surface; or
- Two or more eyes of the tuber are affected
Live insects and visible feeding damage should be noted in the comments section of the inspection report.
8c: Mechanical and Physiological Damage
Mechanical damage:
50 | Digger cuts on tubers are a result of mechanical injuries, cuts may be deep into the tuber, may be lengthwise or crosswise slab cuts exposing large areas.
51 | Shattering bruises is a term used to describe recent injury to a potato from rough handling. Bruises or shattering are characterized by slight to severe breaks in the potato skin, and nearly always result in damage to the underlying tissue. Punctures, scratches or breaks may take place in many forms. In some lots, almost invisible bruising or shattering is followed by extensive rot
Mechanical damage is scored under the Malformed and Damage tolerance when;
- the damage is not well healed and exceeds an aggregate area of more than 10% of the surface; or
- the damage affects two or more eyes of the tuber
Physiological Damage:
52 | Air cracks may occur during harvest or packing, and after packing if the packages are too tight or handled roughly. They appear as fresh, longitudinal cracks and are scored if they materially or seriously affect the germination quality of the potato.
Air cracks are scored under the Malformed and Damage tolerance when:
- they exceed an aggregate area of more than 10% of the surface; or
- the surface cracks affect two or more eyes of the tuber
53 - Sunburn is caused when tubers are exposed to the sun during the growing season and the skin of the tuber turns green with chlorophyll, similar to the above ground parts of the plant. Typically, the bud end is affected and may involve only one area of the tuber; this condition may be accompanied by yellow or cream-colored discolouration of the inner flesh. Sunburn is caused by exposure to sunlight, as opposed to greening, which is caused by exposure to artificial light in storage.
Sunburn is scored under the Malformed and Damage tolerance when the green colouration causes damage to two or more eyes of the tuber are damaged and tuber vigour may be affected.
54 | Ingrown sprouts are a problem when potatoes are stored for long periods at high temperatures (near 16°C), or have been exposed to a sprout inhibitor. The sprouts grow inward causing bulges and cracks in the tubers. Sometimes small new tubers develop inside the mother tuber.
Ingrown sprouts are scored under the Malformed and Damage tolerance when two or more eyes of the tuber are affected
55 | Grass Root Injury is caused by quack grass (Elymus repens) or other similar grass species. The sharp growing points of the rhizomes penetrate into or completely through the tubers. There may be evidence of the rhizome attached to the potato.
Grass root injury is scored under the malformed and damage tolerance when two or more eyes of the tuber are affected regardless of the depth.
56, 57, 58 | Skin spot caused by Polyscytalum pustulans, is characterized by purplish-black, slightly raised spots up to 2 mm in diameter, singly or in groups over the surface of the tuber. They may appear either at random over the surface or aggregated around the eyes. Sometimes it may result in larger necrotic areas forming over the tuber surface. These necrotic areas can be picked out, leaving circular pits of healthy flesh.
Skin spot is scored under the Malformed and Damage tolerance when:
- Purplish-black, slightly raised areas which do not penetrate the flesh, affect more than 10% of the surface area in the aggregate; however, if skin spot penetrates the flesh it may be scored as dry rot as appropriate.
8d: Internal Necrosis (Viral)
Internal Necrosis (Viral) - Causal agents:
Tuber necrosis may be attributed to viral infections by Potato Mop Top Virus (PMTV), Tobacco Rattle Virus (TRV), or Potato Virus Y (PVY)N/NTN. Tuber necrosis may also be referred to as spraing depending on the viral agent (TRV, PMTV). Certain potato viruses which cause tuber necrosis are of particular significance to the Canadian seed potato industry.
Internal Necrosis (Viral) - Symptoms:
Generally, affected tubers show rings, semi-circles or spots on the surface, with brown necrotic lines, arcs and rings in the flesh. Tuber symptoms are, on occasion, limited to internal symptoms only.The tuber skin over some of the brown, sunken rings will often crack. The affected tissues are moderately firm and corky. Some mild infections may exhibit symptoms similar to Internal Brown Spot.
Tobacco Rattle Virus (TRV) (59, 60, 61, 62, 63) is the type-member of the genus Tobravirus, and is the causal agent of the disease commonly referred to as corky ring-spot.
Potato Mop Top Virus (PMTV) (64, 65, 66) is a member of the genus Furovirus and vectored by the powdery scab fungus. PMTV may be transmitted to new sites by planting of virus infected seed with powdery scab lesions
8d: Internal Necrosis (necrotic strains of PVY)
Potato virus Y (PVY) is the type-species of the Potyvirus genus, often occurring as a complex of virus strains. Recognized strains include, but are not limited to: PVYO, PVYN, PVYNTN (may include several distinct isolates/groups) and PVYN:O. Visible tuber symptoms are typically caused by PVYNTN (67, 68, 69, 70, 71).
Scoring:
In order to assess tuber samples for internal necrosis, sub-samples must be cut and examined internally. Section 4.3 Sampling and Cutting Procedure for Internal Defects provides detailed information on this procedure.
- Internal necrosis caused by TRV, PMTV, and necrotic strains of PVY are scored separately under Internal Necrosis, and must be added to other malformed and damage counts for a combined total under the Malformed and Damage tolerance.
8e: Internal Discoloration
Internal discolouration caused by physiological factors including frost, heat or drought:
Scoring:
Internal discolouration caused by physiological factors such as drought or temperature extremes is scored under Damage when the tuber vigour, storage or seed germination may be affected. If the discolouration penetrates greater than 13 mm into the flesh of the tuber or on a tuber cut to expose the largest surface area, if more than 10% of the exposed flesh area is affected by internal discolouration, it is scoreable. If the discolouration penetrates less than 13 mm at the stem end then the discoloration may be scoreable as stem end discoloration. There can be secondary factors present, such as wet or dry rot, and the tubers should not be scored under internal discoloration, but rather it should be scored under the disease, defect or condition affecting the tubers. Mild symptoms of blackheart are scored under the Malformed and Damage tolerance, however if associated with decay, score under soft rot or dry rot as appropriate.
Appendix 9
9a: Tubers not firm
Firm is a term used in the Seeds Regulations Part II to indicate tuber quality for germination. Graded seed potatoes should be mature and firm (turgid). It should be remembered that as tubers age in storage they begin to lose moisture and turgidity. In some instances, when shipments are made late in the shipping season (i.e. late April or May), tubers may have difficulty meeting the firmness requirements.
Scoring:
- Tubers not firm (or flabby tubers) should be scored based on the descriptions given below:
- Firm means that the potato is compact, solid, not shrivelled, flabby or pliable, and is unyielding to moderate pressure.
- Flabby means that the potato is soft, limp, pliable and yields to moderate pressure.
9b Outgrown Spourts
Scoring:
- At Domestic Shipping Point:
Outgrown sprouts are scored when the length exceeds 3/4inch (20mm). - At Domestic Destination:
Outgrown sprouts are scored when the length exceeds 1inch (25mm). - In scoring outgrown sprouts, a tolerance of 10% by count, means that 10% of the tubers may have sprouts exceeding the maximum length allowed, but the remaining 90% of the tubers must not have sprouts exceeding the maximum length allowed.
Appendix 10: Pressure Bruises
Pressure bruises develop in storage on tubers usually late in the season.Tubers are most susceptible to pressure bruising when the humidity in storage drops below 90% causing the tubers to lose moisture, particularly in the initial months of storage. This defect is most often the result of pressure at points of contact with adjacent potatoes, or the floor and appears as flattened or depressed areas on the tuber (80). In most instances, there will be no discolouration of the underlying flesh at time of packing; however, grayish to black discolouration may develop in the affected tissue with time (81). It is impossible to predict whether discolouration will occur, or how extensive it will be, from the appearance of the flattened or depressed areas. Over time pressure bruises may become sunken (82, 83) and develop into a rot (84)Footnote9.
(85) Pressure bruises are scored under a special tolerance for pressure bruises when the sunken and discoloured areas are in excess of 10% of the surface area of the tuber. To approximate percentage coverage, tubers can be divided into quadrants as illustrated below. This is a two dimensional image, one side is shown as 50 %; this represents one half of a tuber sliced down the middle.
Appendix 11: Oversize and Undersize
Requirements:
All documentation for any quantity of graded seed potatoes, whether in containers or in bulk must specify the minimum and maximum size of the graded tubers in millimeters. Unless there is a written contract between the buyer and seller, the minimum acceptable size must not be less than 30mm and not more than 70mm for long type varieties, or 80mm for round type varieties. The percentage of undersize and oversize specimens should be noted in the identified area on the Seed Potato Tuber Inspection Report and must be written on all Seed Potato Certification Tags and Record of Bulk Movement for Seed Potatoes for that shipment.
For contractual agreements between a grower and purchaser for a specific size of graded seed potatoes, the agreement must state the minimum and maximum size in millimeters for the graded tubers. The grower or purchaser must retain, and produce when requested by the CFIA, a copy of the agreement clearly stating the minimum and maximum size. The minimum and maximum size from the agreement must be written on all Seed Potato Certification Tags and Record of Bulk Movement for Seed Potatoes for that shipment.
Scoring:
Unlike all other scoreable tuber diseases, defects and conditions, the percentage of oversize and undersize tubers are calculated by weight. The oversized and undersized tubers from the sample are determined with a sizer with square openings as described below, and weighed. The percentage of oversized and undersized tubers is calculated based on the total weight of the total sample and the exact weight of the oversized and undersized tubers. 95% of all tubers by weight must be between the maximum and minimum sizes.
The measurement for minimum and maximum diameter shall be the greatest length of a potato taken at right angles to the longitudinal axis, disregarding the position of the stem. To determine oversized and undersize specimens, a calibrated sizer with square openings is required. The sizer is adjusted to the appropriate upper or lower size limit and the tuber is moved and attempted to be fitted through the sizer. Tubers are scored as oversize or undersized as appropriate.
The following table details the weight and size, varieties round and long, for various potatoes.
Weight - ounces | Weight - grams | Size: round varieties (approximate) - inches | Size: round varieties (approximate) - millimeters | Size: long varieties (approximate) - inches | Size: long varieties (approximate) - millimeters |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
11/2 | 42.5 | 15/8 | 42 | 11/2 | 39 |
2 | 56.7 | 13/4 | 46 | 15/8 | 42 |
21/2 | 70.9 | 2 | 50 | 13/4 | 46 |
3 | 85.0 | 21/8 | 54 | 17/8 | 48 |
4 | 113.4 | 23/8 | 60 | 21/16 | 52 |
5 | 141.7 | 25/8 | 66 | 21/8 | 55 |
6 | 170.1 | 23/4 | 70 | 21/4 | 58 |
7 | 198.4 | 27/8 | 73 | 2 3/8 | 61 |
8 | 226.8 | 3 | 75 | 21/2 | 63 |
9 | 255.1 | 31/8 | 79 | 25/8 | 66 |
10 | 283.5 | 31/4 | 82 | 2 11/16 | 68 |
11 | 311.8 | 33/8 | 83 | 23/4 | 70 |
12 | 340.2 | 31/2 | 86 | 213/16 | 71 |
Appendix 12: Defects not Scorable
Enlarged Lenticels
Excessive moisture before harvest is the main cause of this disorder. Normally, lenticels are inconspicuous on tubers but under high moisture conditions they rise about 1/16inch (1.6mm) and form numerous whitish protuberances over the tuber surface. If tubers are held in moist atmospheres, these elevated areas remain whitish, but when the tuber dries, they become skin colored, open and somewhat depressed. They make excellent openings for micro-organisms, particularly soft rot bacteria.
Enlarged lenticels are not scored as a defect in seed potatoes unless associated with disease caused by other pathogenic organisms.
Healed Over Flesh
Occasionally, potatoes are harvested without allowing sufficient time for the skins to set. As a result, the skin of affected potatoes may be damaged and through time will heal and a second skin will develop. This is sometimes called "healed over flesh".
Affected potatoes will have areas that are either darker or lighter brown than the normal skin color. This could materially or seriously affect the potato's appearance. This type of discolouration usually affects only the skin area and not the flesh portion of the potato or the viability of the eyes of seed potato tubers.
Healed over flesh is not scoreable for seed potatoes.
Scald
Scald usually results from a rapid loss of moisture through skinned areas and oxidation of immature potatoes. Frequently, the tissue exposed by feathering that has not healed over is scalded and turns dark. Affected tubers turn green or yellow more readily and may be badly shriveled. Frequently rot develops even where no further change in the surface is apparent. In many cases, the affected area becomes sunken and is usually followed by a wet rot.
Scald is not scored on its own, but may be classified either as soft rot, dry rot, or scored as tubers not firm when applicable.
Hollow Heart
Hollow heart is a condition brought about by too rapid or too irregular growth. It often occurs during wet seasons in very fertile or heavily irrigated soils. Hollow heart consists of more or less irregular cavities of varying size within the potato and is usually lined with light-brown to brown dead tissue. This defect is usually, but not always found, in large, rough, misshapen potatoes. The potato should be cut lengthwise, parallel to the flat side, to determine the defect. If the potato is not cut lengthwise, the hollow heart may not be detected.
Hollow heart may be associated with other malformations of tubers and shall be culled appropriately. Where tubers appear normal and sound and no breakdown occurs, hollow heart is not scored. However, when hollow heart is associated with decay, it is scored under the appropriate category.
Silver Scurf
Silver Scurf, caused by Helminthosporium solani, is characterized by a grey, smooth, leathery appearance of the skin and is more noticeable when tubers are wet because of a characteristic silvery sheen. This silvery condition is caused by a fungus that penetrates the tubers through the lenticels and skin. After prolonged storage under warm and moist conditions, the tubers look sooty or smudgy. The disease may spread in storage, especially under high humidity and temperatures.
Silver Scurf is not scored on it own but it is scoreable under Damage when the surface is so badly wrinkled, shriveled, or pitted that it seriously affects the germination quality of the potato. When the underlying flesh is dry or corky and affects more than 10% of the surface area of the tuber, Silver Scurf is scored as dry rot.
Insects
The presence of any live larvae or insects should be recorded. Make note if the insects are either live or dead when found.
Appendix 13: Bacterial Ring Rot
Bacterial Ring Rot (BRR) is caused by the pathogen Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. sepedonicus and is one of the most serious regulated non-quarantine diseases of potatoes in Canada. The BRR pathogen is highly infectious and is readily spread by potato cutters, planters, harvesters and even containers. It is one of the condition defects where a zero tolerance is required at all times.
Tubers expressing BRR symptoms sometimes have darkened areas under the skin and may show surface cracks.However, depending on the timing of the infection, growing conditions, and the variety, infected tubers may appear symptomless. When the tuber is cut across the stem-end, a creamy-yellow to light-brown rot may be visible in the vascular ring; the rot is crumbly to cheesy and odourless. When a cut tuber is squeezed between the thumb and fingers, a cheesy substance sometimes oozes from the affected part of the ring. Often infected tubers are affected by a secondary invasion of soft rot organisms. In some cases, the soft rot organisms may cause complete tuber flesh disintegration, leaving only the outer skin of the tuber. Such hollow tubers are most often found in the field. Most of the severely affected tubers do not reach storage and infections would be identified in the field, but there are occasions when infected tubers are found in storage. If conditions and temperature are properly maintained during storage, little change takes place in the development of the disease; BRR can advance rapidly if storage conditions change and become more ideal for disease development.
Scoring:
Since there is a zero tolerance for BRR, if presence of this pathogen is suspected on a seed producing farm unit, growers must contact their local CFIA office to allow proper follow-up procedures. CFIA inspectors will submit suspect samples to the Charlottetown Laboratory – Potato Diseases, Charlottetown, PEI for confirmation. All lots on the seed farm unit must be held under detention until results from the lab confirm or deny the presence of the pathogen. The confirmation of the presence of this pathogen will lead to the revocation of certification for all the seed lots produced on the farm unit and a full investigation as detailed in the policy directive D-95-18 Seed Potato Certification Program - Investigation Procedure after Clavibacter Michiganensis Subsp. Sepedonicus Has Been Detected on a Seed Potato Farming Unit will be carried out.
Symptoms may include:
Photographs courtesy of Dr. Solke H DeBoer, Canadian Food Inspection Agency
Appendix 14: Seed Potato Tuber Inspection Report
14a: Seed Potato Tuber Inspection Report (Industry Use Only)
14b Seed Potato Tuber Inspection Report (CFIA/ACIA 3076)
Note: Maximum tolerances listed in this example represent shipping point tolerances only. Tolerances at destination and markets other than Canada or the US may vary.
Seed Potato Tuber Inspection Report (CFIA/ACIA 3076)
Appendix 15: Seed Potato Certification Tags
The following are examples of Seed Potato Certification Tags used on bags of seed potatoes produced in Canada.
Appendix 16: Record of Bulk Movement
Appendix 17: Photo Credits
- Agriculture et Agroalimentaire Canada
- Harold(Bud)Platt
16, 57, 58 - Cornell University
- Rosemarie Loria
69 - North Dakota State University
- Gary Secor
59, 60, 67 - Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs
© Queen's Printer for Ontario, 2004. Reproduced with permission. - Publication 23. Potato Field Guide- Insect, Diseases and Defects. (Eugenia Banks)
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 28, 29, 30, 35, 37, 40, 41, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 53, 54, 55, 56, 56, 70, 74, 75, 76, 80, 88, 94. - Pennsylvania State University
- Barbara Christ
14, 15 - Plant Health Center - Virology, Institute of Campinas, Brazil
- Jose Caram de Souza Dias
66, 68 - University of Florida
- Peter Weingartner
61 - University of Idaho
- Jonathan Whitworth
70, 71 - University of Maine
- Steve Johnson
64, 65 - Washington State University
- Robert Thornton
51