Why the US Rejected 25 Tons of Indian Mangoes: Radiation Discrepancy Sparks Controversy

A shipment of 25 tons of Indian mangoes—spread across 15 consignments—was recently rejected and destroyed in the United States, causing a loss of around ₹4.2 crore to Indian farmers. The rejection has triggered a diplomatic and procedural dispute between Indian export authorities and the US inspection agencies, with both sides blaming procedural lapses for the fallout.

What Went Wrong?

The U.S. authorities cited discrepancies in radiation data as the primary reason for the refusal. All fresh produce shipped to the U.S. must undergo irradiation to eliminate pests and meet phytosanitary standards. While the mangoes were indeed irradiated at the Maharashtra State Agricultural Marketing Board (MSAMB) facility in Mumbai (an approved USDA site), U.S. officials alleged that the radiation data was either incomplete or not properly documented.

However, Indian officials strongly refuted these claims, stating that the shipments had passed all required tests and procedures before export. According to MSAMB, the U.S. inspectors did not follow the standard protocol, particularly by not requesting the PPQ203 document—a key clearance required for importing irradiated agricultural goods.

Key Points of Conflict:

• Testing Done in India: The mangoes were irradiated in Mumbai under USDA-approved protocols before shipment on May 8 and 9.
• No Prior Warning: MSAMB said that U.S. officials flagged the issue without coordinating with Indian authorities, and directly escalated the matter.
• Missing Documentation: The U.S. side did not request the PPQ203 form that could have resolved the misunderstanding at the inspection stage itself.
• Ports Involved: The consignments were rejected at major U.S. entry points including Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Atlanta.

Aftermath and Recovery

Despite the setback, the export of mangoes to the U.S. has since resumed. Between May 11 and 18, nearly 186 tons of mangoes were successfully shipped in 39 consignments from the Mumbai radiation facility. India continues to use USDA-approved irradiation centers in Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Ahmedabad for all fresh produce exports to the U.S.

Rising Demand for Indian Mangoes in the U.S.

Interestingly, the incident hasn't dented the booming demand for Indian mangoes in America. Exports surged from $4.36 million in FY23 to $10 million in FY24—a 130% jump. Premium mango varieties like Alphonso, Kesar, Banganapalli, and Himayat are especially sought after.