RE: pine cone recall

Probably way too late...those stores sell a lot and many people will just
throw out the stuff not realizing that the infestation might be more
harmful than normal.

Bonnie Zone 6+ ETN




> [Original Message]
> From: Donna <justme@prairieinet.net>
> To: <gardenchat@hort.net>
> Date: 01/06/2004 6:04:59 PM
> Subject: [CHAT] pine cone recall
>
> FWIW folks... a friend sent me this notice. I attempted to verify that
> it is true and seems to be....
>
> Donna
>
> --snip---
> Subject: Pine Cone Recall
>
>  The Animal and Plant Inspection Service (APHIS) issues a national
> recall on pinecones originating in India. These pinecones are sold both
> singly and in potpourri. The recall was issued because two different
> insect pests have been 
> intercepted: Chlorophorus strobilicola, a wood-boring beetle native to
> India, 
> and larvae of a seed-feeding moth belonging to the genus Cydia. Both
> pests 
> are not known to exist in the United States.
>
> As of December 18, 21 UPC codes are listed in the recall; however, the
> number 
> of recalled UPC codes continues to expand as state and federal
> inspectors 
> locate additional product. Pinecones infested with live insects have
> been 
> found in at least 11 states, including New Jersey, New York, Maryland
> and 
> Delaware. Stores named for the recall are Jo-Ann Fabrics, Lowe's, Dollar
>
> Tree, Safeway, Frank's Nursery and Kmart.  If you've purchased pinecones
> or 
> potpourri from these stores, please check them for these insects.
> Contact 
> the stores for possible refunds and follow the procedure below to
> destroy the 
> insects.  They have
> no natural predators here in the states.  Michigan has a huge evergreen
> population. It would be detrimental to let this bug free in our state.
> In 
> addition, please contact me and I'll send word to the Army Environmental
>
> Center.
>
> Consumers and store managers should take note of potpourri and pinecone
> products purchased in the last few months. The cones should be checked
> for 
> small, circular holes (exit holes) near the base of cones. Sawdust-like 
> material in the bottom of wrapper bags and boxes or in the cracks
> between the 
> scales of pinecones are good indications of insect activity.
>
> Potpourri and pinecones with any indication of insect activity should be
>
> double-bagged and tied securely, and then placed in the freezer for a
> minimum 
> of 2 days. After that time, the bags can be disposed of in the trash.
>
> Some states report that live beetles have been emerging from pinecone
> packages. Homeowners with infested pinecone potpourri may notice small
> (0.5 
> inch long) Chlorophorus strobilicola beetles, especially along window
> sills 
> and ledges. The beetles are black with silver grey lines, and have very
> long 
> antennae. In this instance, potpourri should be double bagged, frozen,
> and 
> then disposed of.
>
> Pinecones recalled will be destroyed in an APHIS-supervised procedure.
> APHIS will now require mandatory fumigation for all pinecones from India
> entering 
> US ports of entry. Products packaged in impermeable wrappers will be
> refused entry unless they are removed from the packaging to allow
> effective treatment.
>
> --end snip---
>
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