The European Union approved Regulation (EU) 2026/215, which updates the maximum residue levels (MRLs) for dimoxystrobin, ethephon and propamocarb in fruit and vegetables placed on the EU market.
The measure amends Annexes II and V of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005 and has been published in the Official Journal of the bloc, with the aim of strengthening food safety and aligning control parameters with new scientific assessments.
The main change affects dimoxystrobin, a fungicide from the strobilurin group used to control fungal diseases. Following the non renewal of its approval as an active substance in the European Union, its MRLs are set at the analytical limit of determination for all products. This means that any detectable presence above the minimum threshold may lead to commercial rejections and requires its elimination from production chains exporting to the European market.
The regulation also introduces changes to the MRLs for ethephon, a plant growth regulator used to accelerate ripening and improve fruit coloration, especially in citrus. The revision is based on dietary exposure assessments carried out by the European Food Safety Authority. In the case of propamocarb, a systemic fungicide used against soil borne pathogens and diseases such as downy mildew, permitted levels are adjusted in light of new toxicological evaluations and data on good agricultural practices.
The regulation sets new MRLs of 0.01 ppm for lemons and oranges, and 0.7 ppm for apples, applicable from 19 August 2026. These parameters require exporters from third countries to plan phytosanitary treatments carefully and strengthen analytical controls prior to shipment.
The legislation will enter into force twenty days after its publication, with general application starting on 19 February 2026. Transitional periods are предусмотрed for products produced or imported before the amendment, provided consumer protection is guaranteed. In the case of dimoxystrobin, restrictions will be stricter due to the expiry of grace periods.
This regulatory update confirms the European Union's trend toward more stringent standards on pesticide residues, with a direct impact on fruit and vegetable producers and exporters. For exporting countries supplying citrus, apples, and horticultural crops, technological adaptation and stronger traceability systems will be essential to maintain access to the EU market.
Source: agroempresario.com
