26.10.2015

Phosphonic acid / fosetyl Al in nuts: prolonged higher maximum residue level (MRLs) planned

The temporary raise of the maximum residue level (MRL) for fosetyl Al (sum of fosetyl plus phosphonic acid and its salts, expressed as fosetyl) in certain products, such as fruits and nuts, to 75 mg/kg, as specified by Regulation (EU) No. 991/2014, expires on 31 December 2015.

The only exceptions are almonds, pistachios, cashew nuts, hazelnuts, macadamia nuts and walnuts. For these products the EU member states agreed at the Standing Committee on Plants, Animals, Food and Feed (ScoPAFF) to extend the higher MRL of 75 mg/kg until March 2019. The relevant legislation is said to be prepared as soon as possible.

National fruit trade associations and their European umbrella organisation continue to campaign for such an extension regarding fruit and vegetables. Should these efforts not be successful, the maximum value of 2 mg/kg, which was valid prior to September 2014, will again apply to certain products from this food sector as of 1 January 2016.