PURPOSE: to set maximum residue levels of pesticides in food and feed in order to raise the level of consumer health protection
LEGISLATIVE ACT: Regulation 396/2005/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council.
CONTENT: The Council adopted a Regulation on maximum residue levels of pesticides in food and feed, designed to raise the level of consumer health protection
The aim of the new, harmonised provisions is twofold: to facilitate trade in food and feed products within the Single Market and with third countries, and to ensure a consistent level of consumer protection across the EU.
Under the Regulation, maximum residue levels will always be set at Community level. The role of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) is also defined; it will be responsible for risk assessment, based on reports from the Member States.
The proposal overhauls and streamlines pesticides legislation by replacing four Directives with a single Regulation, at the same time as amending Regulation 91/414/EEC.
ENTRY INTO FORCE: 05/04/2005.