USDA Eyes Citrus Change
Federal regulators are weighing a potential shift in how fresh Persian limes move from Hawaii to the continental United States, and they are asking the public to weigh in.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, or APHIS, has published a notice in the Federal Register seeking comment on a proposal that could change current requirements. Based on the findings of a pest risk analysis, APHIS is proposing to allow interstate movement of fresh Persian limes under a systems approach as an alternative to existing mitigation structures.
At present, Persian limes shipped interstate from Hawaii must undergo forced hot air treatment or irradiation, the same standard applied to all Hawaiian citrus. The new notice outlines specific conditions for movement under a systems approach and details safeguarding measures designed to prevent the introduction of plant pests.
APHIS will accept public comments for 60 days, through March 30, 2026. After reviewing feedback, USDA will announce whether it will revise the interstate movement requirements in a subsequent notice. For details on how to submit comments and to read more about the proposal, head to https://www.regulations.gov/document/APHIS-2025-0034-0001
