Reasoned opinion on the modification of the existing MRLs for abamectin in various crops

In accordance with Article 6 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005, the Netherlands, hereafter referred to as the evaluating Member State (EMS), received an application from Syngenta Crop Protection AG to modify the existing maximum residue levels (MRLs) for abamectin in various crops. The EMS proposed to raise the existing MRLs in all crops, except scarole. The Netherlands 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 concludes on MRL proposals of 0.02 mg/kg on pome fruits, 0.04 mg/kg on cucurbits with edible peel and 0.05 mg/kg on Chinese cabbage and celery. For beans and peas with pods, an amendment of the MRL of 0.03 mg/kg proposed under the Article 12 review is not necessary. No MRL can be proposed for the intended uses on the groups of lettuces and other salad plants and spinaches and similar leaves. Enforcement methods are available, however none of them is sufficiently validated and the proposed MRLs should be associated with the submission of the data as requested under the Article 12 MRL review. EFSA concludes that the residues of abamectin resulting from the intended uses on pome fruits, cucurbits with edible peel, Chinese cabbage, beans and peas with pods and celery will not result in a consumer exposure exceeding the toxicological reference values and therefore are unlikely to pose a public health concern. However, the risk assessment is indicative pending the submission of the confirmatory data requested under the Article 12 MRL review.