Insect in Tobacco
Insect control in stored tobacco has relied on the use of fumigation with Phosphine, deep freezing and contact pesticides applied as space or surface sprays within structures (not directly on the product). Increasing concerns over the use of toxic compounds, linked to health and environmental fears, as well as increasing pest resistance to phosphine fumigations and ineffectiveness of toxic fumigations at low temperatures, have increased the use of Controlled Atmosphere.
The Controlled Atmosphere can be used in every stage of the production process for the treatment of tobacco products such as green leaves, cut rag tobacco, final products and byproducts. After treatment the tobacco is 100% free of living insects, larva and eggs. During the treatment the level of oxygen, humidity and temperature is monitored and controlled by the EcO2 Control Centre in accordance with the set parameters.
The use of CA treatments for tobacco products is safe, leaves no chemical residue and does not affect the quality of the tobacco. CA treatment times are comparable to toxic fumigations (with Phosphine) and they have a low risk of resistance development. EcO2 can advise the client how to integrate the CA treatment facility in their logistic processes.
Controlled Atmosphere
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The CA technique is applied to control pest in food supplies, and is extremely suitable for both preventive and curative treatments.
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The techniques is based on the creation of a low-oxygen regime / content in a specially constructed gastight treatment chamber.
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The guarantee a killing percentage of 99.997% of the insects in all life cycle: eggs, larvae, pupae, and adults.
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The CA technique is environmentally friendly, without the use of toxic gases, and it does not leave residue. In addition is there is no resistance can occur in the pest populations.