This regulation amends the maximum residue levels (MRLs) for acetamiprid, a pesticide substance, in various food products. The changes are based on a new assessment by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) which established lower acceptable daily intake and acute reference dose values for acetamiprid and included its metabolite IM-2-1 in residue definition for fruit and leafy crops.The regulation consists of two articles and an extensive annex that replaces the existing column for acetamiprid in Annex II to Regulation (EC) No 396/2005. The main changes include lowering MRLs for numerous products including currants, bananas, various types of lettuce, spinach, cherries, peaches, grapes, tomatoes, and several other fruits and vegetables.The key provisions include:
- New lower MRLs for products where EFSA identified exceedance of acute reference dose
- Special provisions for certain products (apples, pears, quinces, apricots, peppers, cucumbers, courgettes) that will be reviewed within two years
- Detailed MRL values for different categories of products including fruits, vegetables, cereals, spices, and animal products
- New residue definition for animal products that includes both acetamiprid and its metabolite N-desmethyl-acetamiprid
The regulation provides a transition period until August 19, 2025, to allow stakeholders to adapt to the new requirements. The MRL values are expressed in mg/kg and range from 0.01 mg/kg (limit of determination) to higher values for specific products.
