Modification of the existing maximum residue level for azoxystrobin in hops

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Food Safety
• Environmental Chemistry

Background:

• Regulation (EC) No 396/2005 governs pesticide residue limits.
• Syngenta Crop Protection AG requested a modification of the azoxystrobin MRL in hops.
• Germany's national authority reviewed the request.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate data for a proposed Maximum Residue Level (MRL) of azoxystrobin in hops.
• To ensure adequate analytical methods for residue enforcement.
• To assess the risk to consumer health from azoxystrobin residues.

Main Methods:

• Data submitted by Syngenta Crop Protection AG were reviewed.
• Analytical methods for azoxystrobin residue detection were assessed.
• A risk assessment was conducted for long-term consumer intake.

Main Results:

• Sufficient data were available to propose an MRL for azoxystrobin in hops.
• Validated analytical methods with a Limit of Quantification (LOQ) of 0.01 mg/kg are available.
• Long-term intake of azoxystrobin residues is unlikely to pose a health risk.

Conclusions:

• The proposed MRL for azoxystrobin in hops is supported by the submitted data.
• Current agricultural practices for azoxystrobin use in hops are deemed safe for consumers.
• EFSA confirmed no acute risk assessment was necessary for azoxystrobin.