Post-Harvest Commodity Fumigation in California

Overview

On November 6th, 2025, CCST partnered with the California Department of Pesticide Regulation to host 11 interdisciplinary experts at the UC Student and Policy Center in Sacramento for the “Post-Harvest Commodity Fumigation in California” Roundtable Convening. The participants examined the current state of post-harvest commodity fumigation and opportunities to reduce worker and community exposure. The proceedings synthesize participants’ perspectives across five key areas: the current drivers of fumigant use for stored commodities; community exposure and emission concerns; available and emerging alternatives such as controlled atmospheres, irradiation, and pheromone-based tools; barriers to adoption of alternatives, including international regulatory requirements, cost, and research gaps; and priority areas for future scientific study.