The BfR reinforces key principles on pesticide residues in food and their impact on postharvest operations

The German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) has published an update to its Questions and Answers document on residues of plant protection products in food, in which it reviews the scientific and regulatory principles governing the presence of residues in food products within the European Union.

Although the content does not introduce regulatory changes, it reinforces key concepts of particular interest to the fruit and vegetable sector and, especially, to the postharvest phase, where the use of plant protection products and residue control are critically important due to their proximity to the final consumer.

Residues, MRLs and risk assessment: principles that also apply in postharvest

The BfR document explains that residues of plant protection products may remain in food even when these products are used correctly and in accordance with good agricultural practices. For this reason, European legislation establishes Maximum Residue Levels (MRLs) based on comprehensive toxicological evaluations, ensuring that, when respected, no adverse effects on consumer health are expected.

From a regulatory perspective, no distinction is made between residues originating from field applications and those resulting from postharvest treatments. The determining factors are the substance detected, its final concentration and its authorisation for the specific crop and use. This approach is particularly relevant in postharvest operations, where residue degradation time is shorter and official controls focus on the final marketed product.

Practical implications for the use of plant protection products after harvest

The BfR’s guidance reinforces the need for strict control over the application of fungicides and other plant protection products in packinghouses, as well as the implementation of analytical and self-monitoring systems to ensure compliance with MRLs. It also highlights that the mere existence of an MRL does not automatically imply authorisation of a substance for a specific use, an issue that is especially sensitive in the current European regulatory context.

In this regard, the information aligns with the growing trend towards more preventive and integrated postharvest strategies, based on reducing the use of synthetic active substances, improving facility sanitation, and adopting solutions with a low residue impact.

A technical reference of interest for the postharvest sector

From the perspective of Poscosecha.com, this type of document represents a relevant technical reference for quality managers, postharvest technicians and industry operators, as it helps to contextualise the regulatory framework within which decisions are made regarding treatments, storage and marketing of fruit and vegetables.

The information originates from the BfR, Germany’s leading scientific authority in health risk assessment, and forms part of its role in disseminating information on food safety and consumer protection. Its content is particularly useful in a context of increasingly demanding markets and heightened scrutiny of residues present in horticultural products.