En.pdf

The European Union responded to questions regarding its Maximum Residue Levels (MRLs) for certain plant protection products. The EU applied the As Low As Reasonably Achievable (ALARA) principle to set MRLs at the lowest achievable level, considering good agricultural practices and protecting vulnerable groups. The EU accepts good agricultural practices authorized in third countries and reviews import tolerances based on strict criteria. The EU also referred to previous replies and relevant Dispute Settlement Body's rulings for clarification on the precautionary principle and scientific uncertainty. The EU provided statistics on its level of harmonization with Codex Alimentarius, with 70% of its MRLs harmonized, and stated that its positions are based on scientific reports prepared by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).