Residues of biocides and pesticides in stored product protection (SPP) available active substances, specific problems

Abstract

To meet the high quality criteria for food, very effective methods are needed to control insects and other pests during storage. Chemical SPP products are widely used for this purpose. However, the number of active substances which may legally be used in storage protection is very limited. High efficacy of the substances is often linked with high toxicity also towards humans. This gives rise to concerns for the safety of workers and/or consumers. A large variety of food and food products comes in contact with SPP products and consumers may be exposed to these chemicals via residues in food. Storage protection is an area that falls both under the biocide and the pesticide legislation. An an overview is given on available active substances (biocides and pesticides) and some specific residue problems including the current state of discussion in the EU.