Modification of the existing maximum residue levels (MRLs) for spirodiclofen in berries

In accordance with Article 6 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005, the evaluating Member State (EMS) Belgium compiled an application to modify the existing maximum residue level (MRL) for the active substance spirodiclofen in blueberries, cranberries and gooseberries in order to accommodate NEU use of spirodiclofen on these crops. Belgium 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 submitted residue trials on grapes and black currants are sufficient to derive a MRL proposal of 0.8 mg/kg, extrapolated to blueberries, cranberries and gooseberries. It is noted that for blueberries a draft EU Regulation implementing a CXL proposal of 4 mg/kg is currently under preparation. Based on the risk assessment results, EFSA concludes that the intended use of spirodiclofen on blueberries, cranberries and gooseberries in Belgium will not result in a consumer exposure exceeding the toxicological reference value for the active substance and therefore is unlikely to pose a concern for public health.