The Council of the European Union has published a cover note dated 23 July 2026 for a Commission Regulation that amends maximum residue levels (MRLs) for six pesticides—acequinocyl, deltamethrin, dodine, maleic hydrazide, pinoxaden, and prothioconazole—in or on certain products. The regulation revises Annex II of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005 to reflect updated scientific assessments and ensure consumer protection while facilitating trade.
The document, a cover note from the Council to its member states, transmits the Commission's draft regulation for information. The new MRLs set specific limits for each pesticide on designated crops, replacing previous levels. The regulation aims to align EU food safety standards with the latest risk evaluations by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and other scientific bodies.
Policy orientations and trade-offs The revision balances consumer health protection against the practical needs of agriculture and trade. Lower MRLs reduce dietary exposure to pesticide residues, benefiting consumers, but may require farmers to adjust application rates, switch to alternative pest control methods, or adopt new post-harvest treatments. For some pesticides, the new limits are more restrictive than current international standards, potentially affecting imports from third countries that rely on higher residue tolerances.
Impact on stakeholders - EU consumers: Benefit from reduced exposure to pesticide residues, enhancing food safety. The impact is moderate, as the changes target specific pesticides and products. - EU farmers and agricultural producers: Face compliance costs from altered spraying schedules, potential yield losses, or investment in alternative pest management. The impact is moderate for producers of affected crops. - Food processors and distributors: Must ensure supply chain compliance, including testing and documentation, which may increase operational costs. The impact is moderate. - Third-country exporters: May need to adjust production practices or face trade barriers if their current residue levels exceed new EU MRLs. The impact is moderate, particularly for countries exporting commodities like cereals or fruits where these pesticides are used.
Institutional follow-up The regulation will be adopted by the Commission following scrutiny by member states via the Standing Committee on Plants, Animals, Food and Feed. Once published in the Official Journal, it will enter into force 20 days later, with a transitional period for products already on the market. Member States will be responsible for enforcement through national monitoring programs.