Hawaii Limes Dodge Hot Air: USDA Proposes Smarter Pest Controls
Published Date: 1/28/2026
Notice
Summary
If you’re involved in moving fresh Persian limes from Hawaii to the continental U.S., big news! The USDA wants to add a new way to keep pests away using a ‘systems approach’ instead of just hot air or irradiation treatments. This change could make shipping easier and they’re asking for your thoughts by March 30, 2026—so get ready to weigh in!
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Systems Approach Proposed as Alternative
If you move fresh Persian limes from Hawaii to the continental United States, APHIS is proposing to allow a systems approach as an alternative to the current forced hot air treatment (treatment schedule T103-b-1) or irradiation (treatment schedule T105-a-1). APHIS will review public comments received by March 30, 2026 and may revise the interstate movement requirements to authorize the systems approach specified in its risk management document.
Risk Assessment Finds No OFF Host Evidence
APHIS prepared a supplemental pest-specific risk assessment that concludes there is no evidence that undamaged, commercially produced Persian lime is a host of Bactocera dorsalis (Oriental fruit fly). That conclusion was used in preparing the risk management document that describes phytosanitary measures for interstate movement.
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Key Dates
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