Managing Pesticide Residue Issues in International Trade of Agro Products from an Industrial Food Chain Perspective

摘要

Pesticide residues in agricultural products are a major consideration during international trade by various industries involving food production, trade, processing and distribution, due to concerns of the potential adverse effects on human health. In fact, if used appropriately, pesticide residues should not be a cause for health concern because rigorous regulatory processes ensure scientific risk assessment of agrichemicals before they are approved for any use. Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) or Tolerances are established, as the maximum concentration of pesticide residue likely to occur in or on food after the use of pesticides according to Good Agricultural Practice (GAP). MRLs are established mainly to monitor whether GAPs are followed and to assist international trade in importing and exporting produce treated with pesticides. Exceeding MRLs does not imply hazards to human health. Although much effort has been put to facilitate international trade by establishing internationally harmonized MRLs (Codex MRLs), some countries/regions still use their own national or regional MRLs, which are quite often very different across the globe. Trade issues may arise when the import and export countries/regions monitor under different MRLs, thus MRL violations in the imported goods. In addition, more stringent compliance rules along the food chain sometimes demand even lower pesticide residues in foods. Therefore, measures should be taken to prevent and tackle potential residue issues in foods in international trade, to reduce economic conflict and loss. From the government perspective, harmonized MRLs and implementation of the harmonized MRLs for most pesticides would be ideal. From the industry perspective, some measures can be recommended to prevent and resolve issues, which include, but not limited to: 1) Follow GAP strictly and no off-label uses; 2) Have a clear understanding of residue regulations (including analytical technology) and food chain requirements in the import country/region in advance; 3) Compare the GAPs, MRLs and residue data of import and export countries/regions, to project potential issues; 4) Residue inspection before export; and 5) Apply for import MRLs. Additionally, residue decline trials, innovative formulations and delivery system, label warning and other type of communications may also help with preventing and dealing with issues associated with pesticide residues in foods. From the academic perspective, education and training may be implemented on residue science to regulators and the public to avoid misunderstanding and interpretation of food residues.