Port Houston approved for cold treatment

Port Houston is pleased to announce that it has received approval from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) to handle cold-processed cargo. This approval allows Port Houston to receive and handle shipments that undergo the prescribed cold-processing process while in transit on water, significantly enhancing the port’s operational capabilities and service offerings.

“As an established importer and distributor of fresh produce in Houston, having cold processing services in this region is imperative to expanding access to essential commodities and ensuring sustainable growth. We applaud the Port Houston team for achieving this important milestone,” said Jacquie Ediger, executive vice president of Pro Citrus Network and Houston-based Foremost Fresh Direct. “These services will help the port increase perishable volume and ultimately support our commitment and core goal: delivering fresh produce to customers as fresh and cost-effectively as possible.”

Cold processing is a critical process used to mitigate the risk of pests in fresh produce. By maintaining specific temperatures for a set period of time, cold processing ensures that fruits and vegetables can be safely imported without introducing harmful pests into the United States. APHIS approval positions Port Houston as a key player in the international cold chain logistics industry.

“Receiving APHIS approval to handle cold-processed cargo is a major achievement for Port Houston,” said Roger Guenther, Port Houston executive director. “This capability allows us to provide additional services to our customers, helping to ensure their perishable goods arrive in optimal condition. It further reinforces our commitment to supporting global trade and meeting stringent agricultural safety standards.”

The APHIS approval process involves rigorous evaluations to ensure that the port’s facilities and operations meet the highest standards for cold-handling cargo. With this approval, the Port of Houston can now accept a broader range of perishable products, including citrus, grapes and other high-value products that require precise temperature controls during transport.

“The approval of USDA APHIS certified cold processing at the Port of Houston will be an incredible benefit to the region. Houston is already a prime location, and offering this service makes it even more attractive to international shippers, further expanding the range of products that can be imported

“Thanks to the port,” said Dante Galeazzi, president and CEO of the Texas International Produce Association. “Along with the many other projects underway in and around Port Houston, these projects continue to position Texas as the premier source for fresh fruits and vegetables.”

The Port of Houston’s state-of-the-art facilities, combined with its strategic location and skilled workforce, make it an ideal hub for handling cold-process cargo. This new capacity complements the port’s existing strengths in cargo diversity and logistics fluidity, providing customers with an efficient gateway.

For more information:
Christine Abbruscato
Port of Houston
Tel.: +1 713-670-2860
E-mail: (protected email)

Lisa Ashley
Tel.: +1 713-670-2644
E-mail: (protected email)