Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026\/2027 authorizes the use of molybdenum chelate of EDTA as a zootechnical feed additive specifically for honeybees. This regulation follows a scientific assessment by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), which identified the substance as a tool to improve the physiological condition of honeybee colonies, particularly regarding winter survival. The authorization is subject to strict usage conditions to ensure consumer safety and prevent the contamination of honey products.<\/p>\n
### Structure and Main Provisions
\nThe act is structured into two main articles and a detailed Annex.
\n* **Article 1** grants the formal authorization of the substance under the category of “zootechnical additives” and the functional group of “physiological condition stabilisers.”
\n* **Article 2** establishes the entry into force of the regulation.
\n* **The Annex** serves as the technical core of the document, defining the identity of the additive, the authorized holder (Oligofeed SAS), the specific chemical composition, analytical methods for verification, and the precise conditions of use.<\/p>\n
Compared to the initial application, this regulation reflects a significant shift: the applicant withdrew the request for use in bumblebees and successfully reclassified the substance from a “nutritional additive” to a “zootechnical additive” based on EFSA\u2019s findings regarding its efficacy in improving winter survival rates in honeybees.<\/p>\n
### Key Provisions for Implementation
\nFor stakeholders and regulatory authorities, the following provisions are critical:<\/p>\n
1. **Usage Restrictions:** To prevent the adulteration of honey, the additive is strictly prohibited from being used when honey supers are on the hive or during the two-month period immediately preceding honey collection.
\n2. **Dosage and Application:** The additive must be administered via sugar-based feed at a dosage of 8 mg per hive per feeding. The Annex specifies a concentration of 2.9 mg of additive per kg of sugar-based feed (assuming a 30% moisture content).
\n3. **Occupational Safety:** Because the substance is classified as a skin and respiratory sensitizer, the regulation mandates that feed business operators implement operational procedures to mitigate exposure. If these measures are insufficient, the use of personal respiratory and skin protective equipment is mandatory for those handling the additive.
\n4. **Analytical Standards:** The regulation mandates specific laboratory methods (such as ICP-AES and FTIR) to verify the composition and chelate structure of the additive, ensuring quality control and compliance across the EU market.
\n5. **Authorization Period:** This authorization is valid until 1 October 2036, after which it will be subject to renewal procedures.<\/p>\n
**:** As this regulation concerns the health and productivity of honeybee populations, it has direct implications for the apiculture sector in Ukraine, which is a significant exporter of honey to the European Union. Ukrainian producers and exporters must be aware of these specific additive requirements and the prohibition periods to ensure their products remain compliant with EU food safety standards and do not face market access barriers.<\/p>\n