
Stricter Biocide Regulations Needed to Protect Dutch Water Quality, Say Water Authorities
Dutch water authorities call for stronger biocide regulation to protect water quality and meet EU Water Framework Directive goals.


On 12 November 2024, the European Commission granted Union authorisation to ITW Novadan ApS for its L-(+)-lactic acid-based teat disinfectants, a biocidal product family designed for veterinary hygiene. The authorisation is effective from 3 December 2024 until 30 November 2034, facilitating EU-wide access to Novadan’s products for safe teat disinfection in dairy animals.
The authorisation, under Regulation (EU) No 528/2012 concerning biocidal products, follows a rigorous assessment conducted by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) and the competent authority in Denmark. This product family, classified as product-type 3 for veterinary hygiene, includes several ready-to-use disinfectant solutions containing L-(+)-lactic acid as an active biocidal substance, designed to ensure safe teat sanitisation post-milking.
The authorised product family, marketed under names such as Viri Barriere Dip and Lacto Protect Film, targets bacteria and yeast on teats of dairy animals like cows, buffaloes, sheep, and goats. The biocidal solutions are applied post-milking through various methods, including manual dipping, automated dipping, and robotic spraying. Each product is formulated at pH 3, optimised for ready use without dilution, with application rates ranging from 2-4 ml per animal.
To protect both handlers and the environment, the Commission has mandated several safety guidelines. These include wearing European Standard EN ISO 16321-compliant eye protection during product application and cleaning, maintaining appropriate storage conditions, and ensuring thorough rinsing of equipment post-use. Emergency measures, such as first aid instructions for exposure, are clearly outlined, alongside environmentally safe disposal instructions to prevent contamination of waterways.
The authorisation streamlines the availability of effective teat disinfection solutions across the EU, enhancing dairy hygiene standards. This approval supports Novadan’s commitment to veterinary hygiene, with safety measures aligning with EU regulations for health and environmental protection.
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