Pesticides: Future GB MRL amendment for Dithianon

 

View as a webpage

Health and Safety Executive logo

HSE ebulletin

Issued: 17 March 2026

This ebulletin contains information relating to plant protection products (PPPs) in Great Britain (GB).

Proposed future GB maximum residue levels (MRLs) amendment

Dithianon is an approved active substance in GB.

HSE has identified acute intake concerns for the current MRLs for dithianon in/on apples and pears; in addition, HSE identified chronic intake concerns as a result of the current MRLs for citrus fruit, raspberries (red and yellow) and currants (red, black and white).

As harmful effects for human health cannot be excluded, it is proposed to lower the specific MRL for dithianon in/on:

  • apples and pears from 3 mg/kg to the Codex MRL (CXL) of 1 mg/kg
  • currants (red, black and white) from 3 mg/kg to the CXL of 2 mg/kg
  • citrus fruits and raspberries (red and yellow) to the limit of quantification of 0.01* mg/kg


HSE also proposes to adopt the CXLs for apricots and plums (0.2 mg/kg), wine grapes (5 mg/kg), and hops (300 mg/kg).

View the draft reasoned opinion on HSE's website.

The proposed date of adoption and publication of the new MRLs is 13 June 2026. The proposed date of entry into force of the new MRL will be 6 months after the date of adoption and publication.

To meet the UK’s international trade obligations, the measures have been notified to the World Trade Organization.

On completion of this process, an update on the final MRL agreed, along with the date of entry into force, will be communicated via HSE’s ebulletin service. 

Visit HSE’s website for more information and guidance on the MRL processes for GB.

COSHH safe handling of chemicals poster

Our poster provides crucial guidance on how to handle chemicals safely in your workplace, including a useful hazardous signs check.

You can download a free version or buy a hard copy on our website: COSHH safe handling of chemicals poster.