USDA Agricultural Research Service showcases Reveam’s success in utilizing ECP® technology for post-harvest pecan weevil control, unlocking new export opportunities for U.S. pecan growers.
(Biloxi, MS ) – Reveam, a U.S.-based leading provider of Electronic Cold- Pasteurization® (ECP®) technology, proudly announced its milestone achievement at the 116th Annual Convention & Trade Show of the Southeastern Pecan Growers Association (SEPGA) held in Biloxi, MS, from February 23-24, 2024. Reveam’s innovation in combating the invasive pecan weevil was spotlighted by USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS), marking a significant advancement in safeguarding pecan crops and facilitating access to international markets.
The presentation at the convention, led by a leading research entomologist from USDA ARS, highlighted Reveam’s successful pecan weevil study funded by the USDA Technical Assistance for Specialty Crops (TASC) Grant. This collaboration aimed to demonstrate the efficacy of ECP® as a post-harvest treatment protocol for pecan weevil larvae, thereby enabling U.S.-produced pecans to meet export requirements, particularly for entry into the Mexican market and beyond.
For decades, certain countries have prohibited the exportation of U.S. pecans originating from regions within the native range of the pecan weevil. This restriction is motivated by concerns over the potential introduction of weevil infestation, which could pose significant threats to the agricultural production of these importing nations. As a result, in-shell pecans grown in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, and select counties in Texas remain subject to this export ban.
Other post-harvest treatment methods relying on harmful chemicals, have proven inadequate, failing to provide the necessary 100% effectiveness against the weevil. The purpose of Reveam’s study is to end the current restrictions that prohibit pecan exports from the Southeastern United States and restore pecan exports to all banned countries, including Mexico. The use of ECP® technology provides the only solution that guarantees 100% effective sterilization of pecan weevils, which can be utilized by USDA to expand the export market for pecans, mirroring successful endeavors with other produce such as Mexican guavas, U.S. peaches, and Mexican manzano peppers.
Chip Starns, Co-founder and Executive Vice President of Reveam, emphasized the company’s commitment to supporting U.S. growers and producers by pioneering sustainable solutions to pest management challenges. “Our collaboration with the USDA underscores our dedication to enhancing food quality and revitalizing export opportunities for pecan growers,” stated Starns during a post-presentation Q&A session. “As a U.S.-based company, we take immense pride in championing our nation’s agricultural industry and promoting global competitiveness of this iconic North American crop.”
Reveam’s proprietary ECP® technology will not only provide a chemical-free, heat-free solution but also prove to be a superior technology that sterilizes fast, with 100% efficiency, preserving the unique freshness and flavor of one of the few native crops in North America. The pecan is currently the most valuable nut crop native to North America, with the total annual value for U.S. growers exceeding $400 million.
Reveam’s successful demonstration of ECP® efficacy at its Rio Grande Valley ECP® Center in McAllen, TX, in partnership with the USDA ARS Southeastern Fruit & Tree Nut Research Station in Byron, GA, heralds a bright future for the pecan industry. With the potential to eliminate longstanding export restrictions, Reveam’s innovative approach enables new solutions for U.S. pecan growers, promising increased market access and economic growth for the industry. As the Southeastern Pecan Growers Association celebrates its 116 th year, Reveam’s breakthrough underscores the resilience and innovation driving the pecan industry forward.
