JSC recently attended a workshop on current and future challenges with residues and MRLs in Europe. The event was well attended by delegates from the EU Commission, EFSA, regulators, industry, and food chain representatives from the EU and third countries.

Discussion at the workshop identified some key points:

• Trade concerns – Issues with regular MRL changes were identified, particularly in relation to long shelf-life commodities and possible trading issues. Proposals were discussed in relation to transitional periods for MRLs to allow such products to be traded more efficiently.
• Transparency – A request for greater transparency in MRL reviews was raised by many stakeholders, including earlier notice of changes to MRLs in order to avoid trading issues.
• Developments in the evaluation of MRLs – These included new guidance on residue definition for risk assessment, revision of the IESTI equation for acute risk assessment and EU discussions on cumulative risk assessment. Concerns about their impact on MRL evaluations were identified and refinements in these areas were proposed in order to make the new guidance workable and realistic.
• Improving the EU legislative framework – Regulations 396/2005 and 1107/2009 are under planned review and there were discussions on contributions to this process as well as identification of improvements over the current system.

For advice on risk assessment and further information on the registration of plant protection products, biocides or general chemicals, or any other regulatory issues, please contact JSC on +44 (0)1423 520245, enquiries@jsci.co.uk.