The board of the NAK has decided to grant an integral exemption from the follow-up check for all check-up groups and all classes. The inspection service comes to this decision due to a lack of specific laboratory materials for the PCR examination as a result of the corona crisis.
The organization has informed the growers of this. The board and standing committee of the NAK indicate that, given the unfavorable situation in the field, they do not want to postpone a decision on this. This means that for viruses the result of the field inspection determines the class.
The limited available capacity is sufficient to carry out laboratory studies on Q organisms (Meloidogyne chitwoodi/phallax) and third country requirements (PMTV) studies. Brown and ring rot research, which is not carried out with PCR, can also continue as normal. Trade and export of seed potatoes are therefore not hindered, director Eric Casteleijn said in the statement.
Voluntary research
In addition, there is still very limited capacity available that can be used to carry out some of the voluntary research. The amount of voluntary research that can be conducted may increase during the season if the NAK can obtain more material. The range of voluntary research is still being further elaborated.