Radiation Certification Inconsistencies Trigger Cargo Rejections
A string of mango shipments from India destined for the United States has been turned away, resulting in a loss exceeding $500,000 for Indian exporters. The US customs authorities at major entry points—including Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Atlanta—cited issues with radiation treatment documentation as the primary cause of rejection.
The fruit had been processed at a government-approved facility in Mumbai on May 8 and 9. Despite undergoing radiation treatment—necessary to comply with US import standards—the certificates accompanying the mangoes were found to be incomplete or inconsistent.
Why the US Requires Radiation Treatment for Mangoes
The US Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) mandates that tropical fruits like mangoes must be treated via irradiation to eliminate quarantine pests. This process ensures consumer safety and prolongs shelf life—making it a non-negotiable standard for import approval.
The discrepancy in paperwork forced importers to choose between destroying the product or bearing the cost of re-exporting the shipments back to India. In most cases, the mangoes were destroyed, as re-importing perishable goods was not considered financially viable.
Industry Reaction and Impact on India’s Export Image
Indian exporters have raised alarms over the situation, claiming that the issue lies in administrative oversight rather than any failure in food safety standards. The Indian mango industry, known for premium varieties like Alphonso and Kesar, relies heavily on seasonal exports to North America.
“The economic damage is just one aspect—this also affects long-term buyer confidence,” said a representative of a fruit export association.
The setback has prompted calls for a systemic audit of phytosanitary certification protocols, along with better coordination between irradiation facilities and documentation authorities.
As export markets become more regulated, industry experts stress the need for digital record-keeping, real-time inspection logs, and enhanced cross-border compliance training for exporters.
