CSMS Message: 11-000191

FDA is informing US importers of the issuance of Import Alert #21-17, "Countrywide Detention Without Physical Examination of Papaya from Mexico."

FDA has taken this action to provide better protection to US consumers of these products. Recent analytical results of samples of papayas from Mexico indicate an elevated number of microbiological contamination violations, specifically salmonella violations. These salmonella violations encompass a number of different growers and regions in Mexico.

Import Alert #21-17 indicates detention without physical examination (DWPE) of all fresh papayas from Mexico because they appear to be adulterated due to the presence of salmonella. In order to obtain an FDA release for an entry of papayas from Mexico, the entry will need to be shown to be free from salmonella, through laboratory analysis by a third-party laboratory. This action takes effect immediately, and is applicable to all entries of papayas from Mexico currently in the entry process; and all future entries of papayas from Mexico. With the issuance of this Import Alert, FDA will cease our increased sampling activities (indicated in CSMS 11-000174, dated August 4, 2011).

Importers should expect delays in FDA releases for papayas from Mexico.

The Import Alert provides additional background information and information on submitting requests for exemption from this countrywide DWPE. All Import Alerts can be found on FDA's internet site, www.FDA.gov, at the following link: http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/CMS_IA/importalert_721.html

Questions regarding this action by FDA can be directed to the contacts indicated in the Import Alert. Questions related to the entry processing of specific entries should be directed to the FDA District covering the port of entry.