Ctgb Triggers Interim Review of 46 Products Amid Rising Scrutiny of TFA Formation and Groundwater Risks

The decision, made during the Ctgb’s December 2025 meeting, aims to protect groundwater quality and prevent long-term threats to drinking water supplies. This development significantly affects professionals across the agricultural, regulatory, and environmental sectors who rely on these substances or oversee their use.

PFAS Degradation and National Risk Assessments

The Ctgb evaluated the Danish findings for reliability and relevance in the Dutch context. Due to differences in national criteria and groundwater modelling, it concluded that specific assessments tailored to the Netherlands are necessary.

Re-evaluations will use national groundwater models and focus on TFA formation from six active substances: fluopyram, fluazinam, diflufenican, mefentrifluconazole, tau-fluvalinate and fluazifop-P-butyl. The scope includes authorised products and new or pending applications containing these substances.

Drinking Water Implications and Regulatory Urgency

Although current TFA levels in drinking water remain well below acceptable daily intake limits, the substance’s mobility and persistence raise concerns about future concentrations. TFA does not readily degrade and may increasingly impact groundwater and, by extension, drinking water quality over time.

The Ctgb has opted not to await the slower European re-evaluation processes. Instead, it aligns with countries such as Norway and Sweden in fast-tracking national reviews, with a goal to complete all decisions by 30 April 2028.

Impact on Agriculture and Policy Recommendations

The Ctgb acknowledges the potential impact of this decision on agricultural stakeholders, particularly if certain pesticides are withdrawn. It advises the Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality (LVVN) to assess the implications for the farming sector and explore viable alternatives to at-risk products.

All affected applicants and authorisation holders will be informed directly by Ctgb.