Contract farming and the adoption of sustainable farm practices: Empirical evidence from cashew farmers in Ghana
Contract farming has been shown to increase agricultural productivity and thus welfare of farmers in developing countries. However, studies that look at the potential environmental effects of contract farming remain quite scanty. This is however crucial, since contract farming may contribute to intensification in cultivation of the contracted crops, in terms of area and the intensity of inputs used. This study investigates the impact of participation in contract farming on sustainable farm practices, using a marginal treatment effects (MTEs) approach to account for potential selection bias and heterogeneity across households. The empirical results show significant heterogeneity in the effects of contract farming on the intensity of sustainable farm practice use. In particular, farmers with high propensity to participate in contract farming tend to have low probabilities of using sustainable farm practices. The findings of this study not only provide new insights into the heterogeneous effects of contract farming, but also entry points for further research to address the dual challenge of agriculture to produce sufficient food, while reducing the adverse impact on the environment.
https://doi.org/10.1002/aepp.13212
Aflatoxins and Ochratoxin A in dried fruits from Morocco: Monitoring, regulatory aspects, and exposure assessment.
The present study aims to investigate the presence of Aflatoxins (AF) in 180 samples dried fruits and Ochratoxin A (OTA) in 210 samples dried fruits and grape juices collected in Morocco. Mycotoxins were analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) coupled to fluorescence detection and immunoaffinity columns (IAC) cleanup. Contamination levels were compared with the maximum regulatory limits (MRL) recently adopted in the country, and mycotoxin exposure of adult consumers was assessed. Results showed that 13.8% of samples were contaminated with AF, with incidences of 23.3, 23.3, 20, 13.8, and 3.3%, in raisins, figs, nuts, peanuts and pistachio, respectively. There were 12 samples (6.6%) that exceeded the MRL of 2-12 ng/g set for aflatoxin B1 (AFB1). While OTA was detected in 17.1% of samples, with incidences of 3.3, 3.3, 30, 30, and 53.3% in walnuts, pistachios, peanuts, raisins and figs, respectively, and a maximum value of 99.1 in dried raisins, that exceeded the MRL (10 ng/g) set for OTA. The co-occurrence of OTA and AF was observed in 4.7% of total samples. Dietary intake showed that the OTA exposure level was lower than safety guidelines set by The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) at 100 ng/kg b.w./week. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.yrtph.2023.105503
Application of machine learning to predict of energy use efficiency and damage assessment of almond and walnut production
A study was conducted in Shahrekord city, Iran, focusing on improving the production of almond and walnut crops on rural agricultural lands. The gardeners selected for the study shared similar characteristics and production histories. One of the major challenges in producing these crops was the manual harvesting process, which required a significant amount of human labor in the region. To collect data, questionnaires and face-to-face interviews were conducted. The study used machine learning models, specifically artificial neural network (ANN) and adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) models, to predict energy use efficiency and environmental impacts in almond and walnut production. Among the models used, the ANFIS model with a three-level topology was found to be the most accurate in predicting output energy generation and environmental impacts in both almond and walnut production. The R2 values for the testing stage ranged from 0.969 to 0.996 for output energy generation and 0.994 to 0.997 for environmental impacts. The study demonstrated the effectiveness of using machine learning models like ANN and ANFIS in predicting energy use efficiency and environmental impacts in almond and walnut production, which can aid in planning and managing these crops more sustainably and efficiently in the future.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.indic.2023.100298
An Eco-Friendly Modification of a Walnut Shell Biosorbent for Increased Efficiency in Wastewater Treatment
Herein, we report the performance of some low-cost biosorbents developed by environment-friendly modification of walnut shells. Two types of biosorbents were prepared by ecological modification of walnut shell surfaces: (1) biosorbents obtained by hot water treatment (WSH2O) and (2) biosorbents produced by mercerization (WSNaOH). Different techniques were used to evaluate the morphological, elemental, and structural modification of the biosorbents, by comparison with raw materials. These characterization techniques involved scanning electron microscopy (SEM) coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray analysis, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The biosorbents were employed for the removal of methylene blue (MB) and crystal violet (CV) cationic dyes (as model organic pollutants) from aqueous solutions. The kinetic adsorption data mainly followed the pseudo-first-order model. The maximum adsorption capacities of the produced biosorbents ranged from 102 to 110 mg/g and were observed at 330 K. Equilibrium data for adsorption were fitted to Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models. The calculated values of thermodynamic parameters suggested that the investigated adsorption processes were exergonic (ΔG < 0) and exothermic (ΔH < 0). In addition, a possible valorization of the cost-effective and eco-friendly spent biosorbents was tested by performing secondary adsorption of the anionic dyes.
http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/su15032704
Macadamia Breeding for Reduced Plant Vigor: Progress and Prospects for Profitable and Sustainable Orchard Systems
Vigor control in tree crops plays an important role in increasing orchard efficiency and sustainability. It has enabled high-density plantations to maximize yield efficiency while reducing production costs. Although traditional methods such as frequent hedging and pruning are still used, dwarfing rootstocks and low-vigor cultivars are the most effective and sustainable means of vigor control, as these methods reduce labor and management costs while maintaining yield efficiency. Considerable variation among cultivars and rootstocks for vigor has been identified; however, mechanisms by which rootstocks affect scion vigor in slow-maturing tree crops remain unclear. With the lack of adequate information required for early and rapid selection, breeding programs in tree crops such as macadamia still utilize manual phenotyping, which is laborious, time-consuming, and expensive. Providing insights on emerging technologies that enhance breeding programs via rapid selection, this review summarizes the current state of vigor management and underlying mechanisms of vigor control in tree crops. It provides further understanding of the prospects of applying those techniques in rootstock and scion breeding for low-vigor and yield-efficient cultivars in tree crops, with specific reference to macadamia.
http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/su151914506
Land Suitability Assessment for Pistachio Cultivation Using GIS and Multi-Criteria Decision-Making: A Case Study of Mardin, Turkey
Site selection for pistachio orchards is an important issue for sustainable agricultural policies, crop productivity, agricultural planning, and communities. This study aims to investigate suitable places for pistachio in the Mardin Province (SE Turkey) by considering several variables, such as meteorological data, topographic conditions, economic factors, and soil characteristics, using Geographic Information System (GIS) and Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis. Pistachio farmers, expert opinions, and literature data were used to determine the requirements for pistachio cultivation. Four main assessment criteria (thirteen sub-criteria), sixty value ranges, and fourteen exclusion criteria were determined for the pistachio land suitability assessment. The weighting of the evaluation criteria was calculated using the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP). Farmers and experts have stated that meteorological factors are more important than soil, topography, and economic factors. All data were transferred to the GIS environment, and a land suitability map was created using the weighted linear combination method. The results show that Mardin province has very suitable lands for pistachio cultivation. The resulting map determined that the 228,891.59 ha area in Mardin province is very suitable for pistachio. To evaluate the accuracy of the land suitability map generated for pistachio, the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve was used. The value of the area under the curve (AUC) was calculated to be 0.806, which indicates that the study is consistent. The created suitability map will be an essential data source for developing sustainable agricultural strategies in the Southeastern Anatolia region.
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10661-023-11899-y
Food Safety Update: October 2023
Chile: Phytosanitary Requirements on Imported Cashew
A proposed regulation would establish phytosanitary requirements for the import of cashew nuts into Chile from any country of origin. Aspects covered include the following:
- Official phytosanitary certificate issued by the country of origin, with the following additional declaration: "The shipment has been treated for Trogoderma granarium (Col., Dermestidae), and Corcyra cephalonica (Lep., Pyralidae)"
- Fumigation treatments accepted
- Alternative additional declaration accepted
- Requirements concerning shipment, transport and inspection
The final date for comments is November 27, 2023.
EU: European Commission Plans to Harmonize Official Controls
FRUCOM reported that it recently met with officials from the official controls unit of the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Health and Food Safety to discuss official controls on food originating from third countries. The officials explained that, under Regulation (EU) 2017/625, Articles 66 and 67, special treatment is allowed for foods if they do not pose a risk to human health. However, in the case of goods that do pose a risk to human health, the goods must be destroyed (re-dispatch to third countries is not allowed). The officials noted that the Commission is aware that some Member States have national guidelines that define risk differently and that destruction of goods has been on the rise in some countries. Internal discussions are currently underway at the Commission to create a guidance document that would harmonize official controls among Member States.
EU: Pesticides Update
On October 5, 2023, the European Commission published Regulation (EU) 2023/2382 amending Annexes II and V of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005 as regards maximum residue levels for carbetamide, carboxin and triflumuron in or on certain products.
| Pesticide | Commodities | MRL (ppm) |
| Carbetamide | Dried fruits; tree nuts; peanuts | 0.01 |
| Triflumuron | Dried fruits; tree nuts; peanuts | 0.01 |
In addition, on October 12-13, the Standing Committee on Plants, Animals, Food and Feed, Section Phytopharmaceuticals – Legislation, voted in favor of the non-renewal of the active substances benthiavalicarb, clofentezine, metiram, S-metolachlor and triflusulfuron-methyl.
Finally, the European Parliament’s Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety published a draft motion for a resolution on the renewal of the approval of propiconazole as an active substance for use in biocidal products of product-type 8. This document calls on the Commission to withdraw its draft implementing regulation and to submit a new draft to the committee, proposing non-renewal of the approval of propiconazole.
Netherlands: Food Safety Authority to Monitor MOAH in Various Products
The Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority will be monitoring mineral oil aromatic hydrocarbons (MOAH) in various foodstuffs in accordance with a temporary enforcement policy that will come into effect as of January 1, 2024.
Action limits:
- Dry foods with low fat/oil content (≤4% fat/oil): 0.5 mg/kg
- Foods with higher fat/oil content (>4% fat/oil): 1.0 mg/kg
- Fats/oils or foods with >50% fat/oil content: 2.0 mg/kg
Latest Trade News and Agreements: October 2023
World Trade Report 2023
The WTO recently published its annual World Trade Report. This year’s report examines the role of international trade in addressing some of the most pressing challenges of our time: maintaining peace and security, reducing poverty and inequality, and achieving a sustainable economy.
The report analyses the benefits of re-globalization as well as the risks of fragmentation of the multilateral trading system. Moreover, it raises concerns about the proliferation of trade tensions and skepticism towards international trade on the part of policymakers. In particular, the report points out the rising use of subsidies by governments, which has resulted in a sharp increase in the number of countervailing measures undertaken by WTO members.
China: Appeal of WTO Ruling on Section 232 Retaliatory Tariffs
In September, China notified the Dispute Settlement Body of the World Trade Organization of its decision to appeal a ruling in a case regarding China’s retaliatory tariffs imposed in response to US Section 232 tariffs on steel and aluminum. The move will allow China to maintain its retaliatory duties in the absence of a final decision.
EU-Mercosur: Trade Negotiations Restarted
Representatives of the European Union and Mercosur met in Brazil in early October to try to reconcile their positions on a potential trade deal, according to Reuters. Negotiations had been on hold since 2019 due to EU concerns over deforestation and Mercosur’s slow response to an EU proposal on environmental safeguards. According to a spokesperson for Brazil’s foreign ministry, new rounds of talks will take place on a weekly basis in advance of the lead negotiators’ scheduled meeting in Brasilia on October 30.
EU: Call for Feedback on Draft Regulation on Imports of Organic Products
The European Commission has called for feedback on a draft Commission implementing regulation on the recognition of certain control authorities and control bodies for the purpose of importing organic products into the Union. The EU imports organic products from a list of non-EU countries and from a list of control authorities and control bodies recognized for the purpose of equivalence. The proposed regulation would introduce changes for some control bodies in Bolivia, Canada, Chile, Honduras, Israel, Italy, Japan, Korea and the US. The deadline for comments is November 17, 2023.
Kenya: Proposed Legislation Aims to Transform Cashew Sector
Kenya’s National Assembly Committee on Agriculture and Livestock has begun the process of reviewing a legislative proposal that seeks to provide regulation for the production, processing, marketing, grading, storage, collection, transportation and warehousing of coconut and cashew nut. The proposed bill, known as Coconut and Cashew Nut Bill 2023, also seeks to establish the Coconut and Cashew Nut Board of Kenya, a body with the pivotal role of overseeing the regulation, production, grading, storage, auctioning, marketing, research and development of coconut and cashew nut.
Kenya-EU: Trade Agreement Sent to Council for Signature and Conclusion
On September 28, the European Commission sent its proposals for the Council’s signature and conclusion of the EU-Kenya Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA). The EPA foresees asymmetric removal of tariffs, meaning that the EU would fully liberalize access to its market immediately upon application of the EPA and Kenya would open its market gradually to imports from the EU, benefitting from transitional periods. Once the Council gives its approval, the EU will be able to sign the EPA, which would then be sent to the European Parliament for consent.
Tanzania: Cashews Produced in Southern Regions to Be Transported Through Mtwara Port
Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA) has begun implementing directives issued by President Samia Suluhu Hassan to ensure cashew nuts produced in southern regions of the country are transported through Mtwara Port starting in the 2023/24 season, according to the Tanzanian newspaper Daily News. In September, President Samia promised to allocate more budget to improve Mtwara Port in a bid to make it the country’s largest water gateway and an economic engine for the region.
UK: Proposed Changes to Official Controls
The UK food safety authorities have proposed amendments to Retained Regulation 2019/1793, which sets rules concerning the temporary increase of official controls applicable to certain food and feed of non-animal origin entering Great Britain from the countries listed in that Regulation. This is due to the risk of contamination by aflatoxins, pesticide residues, dyes, preservatives, pentachlorophenol and dioxins by microbiological contamination. The proposed changes would affect peanut paste from Bolivia, China, the US, Egypt, Gambia, Ghana, India and Sudan; peanuts and peanut products from Brazil; and hazelnut and hazelnut products from Türkiye. The proposed date of adoption is January 29, 2024.
UK-US: UK Signs MOU with Washington State
In late September, the UK announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with the US state of Washington to boost trade and investment. This MOU is the sixth of its kind and reflects the UK’s state-level strategy to promote trade with the US.
US-EU: Joint Summit and Tariffs Dispute Update
A Joint US-EU Summit took place in Washington, D.C., on October 20, 2023. Recent announcements by both sides had raised hopes that this meeting would yield a key announcement on the longstanding trade dispute stemming from the Section 232 tariffs on EU steel and aluminum, which affects imports of US peanut butter and cranberry products into the EU. However, no permanent resolution was reached at the summit to settle this longstanding trade dispute. A joint statement reiterated both parties’ commitment to finding a solution but did not clarify where negotiations stand, adding: “We look forward to continuing to make progress on these important objectives in the next two months.”
USA: USDA Announces Appointments to American Pecan Promotion Board
In late September, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced the appointment of seven members to serve on the American Pecan Promotion Board: Phillip Arnold (Fairacres, NM), Brycen J. Salopek, (Las Cruces, NM), Larry Salopek (Bowie, AZ), Deborah E. Walden-Ralls (Sahuarita, AZ), Steve Zaffarano (Stockton, CA), Romulo Garza (San Antonio, TX) and Larry Don Womack (Deleon, TX).
Labeling Update: October 2023
India: Goa Cashew Secures Geographical Indication Tag
According to the Times of India, Goa cashew has been granted the Geographical Indication (GI) tag. This distinction, which is conferred upon products originating from a specific region, will enable buyers to differentiate between authentic cashews from Goa and those sourced from outside the southwestern Indian state.
Switzerland: Labeling of Foods Bearing a Health Claim
According to a proposed Swiss regulation on the labeling of foods bearing a health claim, the origin of the main ingredient would only be required if it is present in significant quantities and if otherwise the consumer could be misled about the true origin of this ingredient. The proposed regulation aims to reduce barriers to trade by permitting the indication of larger geographical areas (e.g. "EU") as indication of origin. This regulation would apply to voluntary indications only. If adopted, the regulation would enter into force on February 1, 2024.
USA: Standards for Grades of Processed Raisins and of Pecans
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) has revised the U.S. Standards for Grades of Processed Raisins. The AMS is modifying two references to the allowances for capstems in order to modernize the standards to reflect current industry practices.
The AMS has also proposed to revise the U.S. Standards for Grades of Pecans in the Shell and the US Standards for Grades of Shelled Pecans by replacing the current grades with U.S. Extra Fancy, U.S. Fancy, U.S. Choice and U.S. Standard grades. The proposal would also update terminology, definitions and defect scoring guides.
Marketing Orders: October 2023
USA: USDA Amends Federal Marketing Order for California Almonds
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced a final rule that changes multiple provisions in the administrative requirements prescribed under the Federal marketing order regulating the handling of almonds grown in California. This action amends administrative requirements regulating quality control, exempt dispositions, and interest and late charges provisions. The date of entry into force is November 1, 2023.