Reasoned opinion on the modification of the existing maximum residue levels (MRLs) for bifenazate in blueberries, cranberries, gooseberries and azaroles (kiwiberries)

In accordance with Article 6 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005, Belgium, hereafter referred to as the evaluating Member State (EMS), compiled an application to modify the existing maximum residue levels (MRLs) for the active substance bifenazate in blueberries, cranberries, gooseberries and azaroles (based on the intended use on kiwiberries). In order to accommodate for the intended uses of bifenazate, Belgium proposed to raise the existing maximum residue limits (MRLs) from the limit of quantification (LOQ) to 0.7 mg/kg. Belgium drafted an evaluation report in accordance with Article 8 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005 which was submitted to the European Commission and forwarded to EFSA. According to EFSA the data are sufficient to derive a MRL proposal of 0.7 mg/kg for the intended indoor use on blueberries, cranberries, gooseberries and kiwiberries (azaroles). The intended outdoor use in Belgium is not supported by residue data. Adequate analytical enforcement methods are available to control the residues of bifenazate in the commodities under consideration. Based on the risk assessment results, EFSA concludes that the proposed uses of bifenazate on blueberries, cranberries, gooseberries and kiwiberries (azaroles) will not result in a consumer exposure exceeding the toxicological reference value and therefore is unlikely to pose a consumer health risk.