Northwest Horticultural Council

Country Alerts

Apple Shippers Reminded of Taiwanese Requirements Regarding Wax, MRLs

As the 2023/24 apple shipping season gets underway, shippers are reminded to be vigilant regarding wax, maximum residue levels (MRLs), and other requirements, such as compliance with the codling moth work plan, for shipments bound for Taiwan.

Following multiple MRL violations for U.S. cherries this season and the resulting suspension of four U.S. cherry shippers by the Taiwan Food and Drug Administration (TFDA), scrutiny of apple shipments is anticipated for the foreseeable future.

In recent years, there have been rejections of U.S. apple shipments for violations of Taiwan’s MRL for pyrimethanil (Penbotec) and related to the presence of carnauba wax statements on shipping cartons. TFDA does not allow the use of carnauba wax on fruits and vegetables. Taiwan’s MRL for pyrimethanil is 7 ppm, while the U.S. MRL is 15 ppm.

When shipping to Taiwan and other export countries, shippers are encouraged to review the NHC MRL Database for top markets, as well as wax restrictions and other labeling requirements in our Export Manual and Fresh Fruit Labeling Manual.

The NHC is working with U.S. officials and wax manufacturers to seek a change in Taiwan’s regulations regarding the use of carnauba wax on produce and the MRL for pyrimethanil.

Posted: 8/29/2023