Recently, the European Commission issued an important regulation to further tighten the control of thiacloprid residues in imported agricultural products. Thiacloprid, a neonicotinoid insecticide widely used on cotton, fruits and vegetables, and other crops, has been completely banned in the EU in February 2020 due to its potential environmental and health risks. An assessment by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) showed that the pesticide may cause contamination of groundwater and has reproductive toxicity potential, including possible effects on fertility and fetal development.

The latest EU Regulation 2024/2711 sets out stricter requirements for thiamethoxam residues in imported products. This decision was based on consumer health protection considerations, particularly with regard to the maximum residue limits for non-EU regulated uses.

In order to ensure that interested parties are able to adapt to the new regulatory requirements, the regulation provides for a reasonable transition period. This will give EU Member States, exporting countries and food businesses sufficient time to adjust their production and trading strategies to comply with the new residue limits. For the majority of products already on the EU market, the new standard will allow for a certain transition period. However, for specific produce such as pears, peaches, raspberries, peppers, cabbage and lettuce, where an acute risk has been identified, the new standard will be implemented immediately.