Federal agriculture authorities have completed a comprehensive safety evaluation regarding the potential importation of fresh artichokes from the Italian island of Sardinia into the United States.
The assessment focuses on fresh, young flower buds of the globe artichoke plant, scientifically known as Cynara cardunculus or spiny artichoke, that would be shipped from Sardinia to American markets.
According to the completed evaluation, officials have concluded that implementing specific plant health safety protocols will adequately prevent the introduction or spread of harmful plant diseases and invasive weeds that could potentially accompany these Italian artichoke shipments.
The comprehensive risk assessment is now available for public examination and feedback as part of the regulatory review process.
