Reasoned opinion on the modification of the existing maximum residue levels for propamocarb in onions, garlic, shallots and leeks

In accordance with Article 6 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005, The Netherlands, hereafter referred to as the evaluating Member State (EMS), received an application from Bayer CropScience to modify the existing maximum residue levels (MRLs) for the active substance propamocarb in onions, garlic, shallots and leeks. In order to accommodate for the intended uses of propamocarb, The Netherlands proposed to raise the existing MRLs to 3 mg/kg in onions, garlic and shallots and to 30 mg/kg in leek. The Netherlands drafted an evaluation report in accordance with Article 8 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005 which was submitted to the European Commission (EC) and forwarded to EFSA. According to EFSA the data are sufficient to propose a MRL of 2 mg/kg for the intended uses on garlic and shallots, without amending the existing MRL of 2 mg/kg for onions. The MRL proposal of 30 mg/kg is derived for the intended uses on leeks. Adequate analytical methods are available to control the residues of propamocarb on the crops under consideration. Based on the risk assessment results, EFSA concludes that the intended uses of propamocarb on onions, garlic and shallots are unlikely to pose a public health concern. In contrast, a potential acute exposure cannot be excluded for leeks. Risk managers should decide whether the cooking factor derived for leafy crops is applicable to stem crops and whether the margin of safety might be considered sufficient to protect consumers.