In a significant regulatory development, the European Commission has announced its decision not to approve eggshell powder as a basic substance for use in plant protection products. This decision comes under the provisions of Regulation (EC) No 1107/2009, following a detailed review and assessment process involving multiple scientific bodies.
Background on the Application
The application for the use of eggshell powder as a basic substance was first submitted in June 2020 by SAMO, with revisions made in subsequent years. The intended use was as a fungifuge for grapevines. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) conducted a peer review and issued its final conclusions in October 2023.
Key Concerns
The rejection of the application was largely based on concerns related to both human health and environmental safety:
- Human Health Risks: The EFSA highlighted potential neurodevelopmental risks, particularly for children, due to the lead content in eggshell powder. Additionally, residues of eggshell powder on grapes could pose risks due to allergenic concerns, requiring mandatory labelling under EU food safety regulations.
- Environmental Impact: The Authority found that data on the impact of eggshell powder on non-target organisms were insufficient. Without adequate exposure and hazard assessments, the potential risks to ecosystems remained unclear.
Final Decision
Despite the submission of additional data and arguments from SAMO, the Commission concluded that the safety concerns were too significant to approve the substance. However, the decision leaves open the possibility for future applications with revised specifications.
Industry Implications
The non-approval of eggshell powder marks a notable moment for industries involved in sustainable plant protection methods. While calcium carbonate and calcium oxide, components of eggshell powder, are already used in other contexts, the regulatory hurdles faced in this instance highlight the challenges for natural products seeking approval under stringent EU regulations.
For now, eggshell powder will not be a part of the EU's roster of approved basic substances, though the door remains open for further submissions that address the current concerns.
This decision is bound to spark further discussions about the future of natural alternatives in plant protection, especially as the market seeks safer, eco-friendly solutions.
