Reasoned opinion on the modification of the existing MRLs for clofentezine in cherries, cucurbits with edible peel, tomatoes and aubergines

In accordance with Article 6 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005, the United Kingdom, hereafter referred to as the evaluating Member State (EMS), received an application from Makteshim-Agan UK Ltd to modify the existing MRLs for the active substance clofentezine in several commodities. In order to accommodate for the intended uses of clofentezine, the United Kingdom proposed to raise the existing MRL in cucurbits with edible peel to 0.2 mg/kg and in tomatoes and aubergines to 0.5 mg/kg. No MRL was proposed for cherries as the data were insufficient. The United Kingdom 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. According to EFSA the data are sufficient to propose a MRL of 0.2 mg/kg on cucurbits with edible peel. An amendment of the MRL is not proposed on cherries as the data were not sufficient and on tomatoes, aubergines and courgettes as long as the toxicity of the metabolites observed in the hydrolysis study is not addressed and information on their possible residue levels in the processed food commodities provided. Adequate analytical enforcement methods are available to control the residues of clofentezine in the commodities under consideration. Based on the risk assessment results, EFSA concludes that the proposed use of clofentezine on cucumbers and gherkins will not result in a consumer exposure exceeding the toxicological reference value for clofentezine. However, the overall risk assessment in the framework of this opinion should be considered as provisional pending the conclusion on the toxicology of the metabolite 2-chlorobenzonitrile.