Modification of a maximum residue level for mepiquat in cotton seeds

In accordance with the Article 53 of the Regulation (EC) 1107/2009, Greece granted a 120-day emergency authorisation for the use of mepiquat in cotton following an application by the Hellenic Ministry of Rural Development and Food. To accommodate for the use of mepiquat according to the authorised good agricultural practices, Greece submitted an application to set a temporary maximum residue level (tMRL) for the active substance mepiquat in cotton seed in line with Article 16(1) in conjunction with Article 14 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005. Greece, as evaluating Member State (EMS), drafted an evaluation report in accordance with Article 8 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005, which was submitted to the European Commission and forwarded to EFSA. EFSA has assessed the available data and performed a risk assessment as regards the risks to consumers related to the exposure of mepiquat chloride in cotton seed. Several risk management options were derived in response to the request to amend the existing MRL for cotton seed. EFSA did not confirm the need to modify the existing MRLs for animal products as suggested by Greece.