Netherlands: A new banana fungus is spreading rapidly around the world

A recent genetic study by Wageningen University and Utrecht University has revealed the rapid global spread of Fusarium wilt, with the dominant strain TR4 affecting banana plantations in Mozambique and beyond. Initially detected in Africa a decade ago, the fungus has now infiltrated Asia and South America, raising concerns about food security, especially in countries like Tanzania, Malawi, Uganda, and Rwanda where bananas are a staple food. The study's author, Anouk van Westerhoven, emphasizes the disease's propensity to spread, especially among small farmers and households, and highlights the need to understand the disease's impact on various banana varieties. Additionally, the article touches on the effects of cold weather and high energy costs contributing to increased greenhouse vegetable prices in Ukraine, but assures there will be no vegetable crop shortage despite the temporary occupation of southern regions. The war has, however, encouraged cooperatives to shift their focus from berry to vegetable cultivation to support the population with home-grown produce.