Support research that will evaluate the current udsa restrictions on low O2 conditions for phytosanitary irradiation treatments

The U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service awarded a Cooperative Agreement to the University of Florida Division of Sponsored Research for $134,664 on August 1, 2026, to support research evaluating current USDA restrictions on low-oxygen conditions for phytosanitary irradiation treatments. The research addresses the gap between current USDA policy and industry practice: many fresh commodity producers package fruits and vegetables in low-oxygen atmospheres (often 1–10% oxygen), yet USDA restrictions limit irradiation in very low-oxygen conditions. The work will generate evidence to inform potential updates to federal phytosanitary treatment standards.

The award runs from August 1, 2026 through July 31, 2027, with performance taking place in Florida. The University of Florida Division of Sponsored Research serves as the prime recipient, administering the grant through its sponsored research infrastructure.

Currently, many fresh commodity producers package fruits or vegetables in low in O2 (often 1-10% oxygen). IT is known that irradiation in very low oxygen (