The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has announced the adoption of Codex Maximum Residue Levels (CXLs) for a range of pesticide active substance/crop combinations. This comes as a part of the independent pesticides regulatory regime operational in Great Britain (GB).
Understanding the CXLs
CXLs are critical global standards that govern the permissible limits of pesticide residues in or on food and animal feed. These standards are the result of a collaborative international effort to ensure food safety and consumer protection.
The evaluation of these pesticide residues is conducted annually by the Joint Meeting on Pesticide Residues (JMPR), a collaborative body of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO). This rigorous assessment process plays a pivotal role in establishing safe levels of pesticide use.
Each year, based on the findings and recommendations of the JMPR, the Codex Committee on Pesticide Residues (CCPR) deliberates on proposed Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs). These proposed limits are then considered for adoption by the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC) as CXLs, thereby setting the international benchmarks for food safety related to pesticide residues.
The CXLs are not automatically implemented by member countries; instead, they require national assessments to ensure compatibility with local safety standards.
The GB Adoption of CXLs
In December 2022, the Codex Alimentarius Commission adopted new CXLs, which underwent a thorough review by the HSE. After ensuring that these new standards align with the required protection level for UK consumers, HSE has adopted them as GB MRLs. This decision reflects GB's commitment to maintaining high food safety standards while aligning with international norms.
Implications for Stakeholders
The new MRLs, effective from 8 December 2023, have been listed in the GB MRL Statutory Register. This adoption carries significant implications for stakeholders in the agriculture and food sectors. Producers and exporters must ensure their products comply with these updated MRLs to remain marketable in GB. Regular updates and strict adherence to these standards are crucial for maintaining product quality and consumer safety.
Accessing Detailed Information
For those seeking detailed information, the full list of CXLs adopted as GB MRLs, including the evaluation reports and decision documents supporting each CXL, is available on the HSE's website. It's crucial for stakeholders to familiarise themselves with these documents to fully understand the implications of these changes.
