Statement on MRLs for alpha-cypermethrin and screening of the existing EU MRLs for cypermethrin

Abstract

In accordance with Article 43 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005, the European Commission requested EFSA to prepare a statement on the maximum residue level (MRL) proposals for alpha-cypermethrin and to perform a screening of the existing MRLs for cypermethrins based on the toxicological reference values of alpha-cypermethrin. Conversion factors based on the isomeric composition in the technical mixtures and commercial formulations of alpha-cypermethrin, zeta-cypermethrins and cypermethrins (sum of isomers) were used to recalculate MRL values proposed in the 2023 MRL review (and based on existing EU uses, import tolerances or codex maximum residue limits for cypermethrin and zeta-cypermethrin) into alpha-cypermethrin. The combined risk assessment conducted in the MRL review is expected to cover the MRLs calculated as alpha-cypermethrin in the present assessment. Moreover, a screening of the existing EU MRLs for cypermethrins considering the toxicological reference values of the more toxic alpha-cypermethrin was carried out. Two lists of MRLs, list MRL 1 expressing the residue as cypermethrin including other mixtures of constituent isomers (sum of isomers) and list MRL 2 expressing the residue as alpha-cypermethrin, are presented for further consideration by risk managers.