Temperature spikes on days 1–5 were not tested
in this study, however, our fruit quality studies
indicated that even after 28 days, there was little
reduction in the quality. Thus, if a temperature
spike occurs during days 1–5, the fruit quality
would not be adversely affected if the treatment
were to start again from day 0. Our studies also
indicate that at day 9 and beyond (day 8 and
beyond with preconditioned fruit) no eggs survived
the cold treatment at any of the three treatment
temperatures tested in this study. Thus temperature
spikes that may occur beyond day 9 should not
pose any additional risk to quarantine security. We
recommend, however, that if temperature spikes
occur beyond day 9, that the same protocols (as the
6–9 day protocol) for monitoring sequential
(hourly) temperature readings are followed and
that the consignment must still complete the required
treatment regime (days and temperature) to
be considered fruit fly disinfested.