In a significant move impacting the agricultural sector, the European Commission has declared the non-renewal of the approval for the active substance benthiavalicarb, a decision grounded in the stringent guidelines of Regulation (EC) No 1107/2009. This regulation, pivotal in ensuring the safe placement of plant protection products in the market, has led to the amendment of Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 540/2011.
Originally included in Annex I to Council Directive 91/414/EEC through Commission Directive 2008/44/EC, benthiavalicarb's approval was set to expire on November 15, 2024. Despite an application for renewal and a comprehensive assessment process involving Poland and France as rapporteur and co-rapporteur Member States respectively, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) raised significant concerns.
The EFSA's evaluation highlighted the carcinogenic potential of benthiavalicarb, aligning with the European Chemical Agency's proposal to classify it as a category 1B carcinogen. Furthermore, the substance was found to exhibit endocrine-disrupting properties with potentially adverse effects on humans, failing to meet the safety benchmarks set out in Annex II to Regulation (EC) No 1107/2009.
While acknowledging the limited availability of chemical alternatives in certain Member States and for specific uses of benthiavalicarb, the Commission concluded that the conditions for applying a derogation under Article 4(7) of Regulation (EC) No 1107/2009 were not met. This is due to the availability of some non-chemical methods and the potential for combining these with chemical methods to control pests.
The decision, aligned with the opinion of the Standing Committee on Plants, Animals, Food and Feed, mandates Member States to withdraw authorisations for plant protection products containing benthiavalicarb by June 13, 2024. Additionally, any grace period granted for such products should not exceed December 13, 2024.
This development underscores the EU's commitment to public health and environmental safety. Stakeholders affected by this change are advised to explore alternative solutions and strategies for pest control. In this context, Foresight's solutions offer innovative and compliant alternatives to support stakeholders in adapting to these new regulatory requirements, ensuring both compliance and effective pest management.
For more information and guidance on navigating these changes, visit our blog, Signal, for expert insights and updates on chemical legislation and compliance solutions.
