3% of samples tested were found to be non-compliant
A total of 2,289 samples were tested as part of PPP residue control in 2022. Taking the measurement uncertainty into account, the maximum residue level (MRL) of PPPs determined in legislation was exceeded in 74 samples (3%). Of these, a total of 13 samples were food products violating legislation on organic production with residues prohibited in organic production.
A total of 565 samples were taken from Finnish products in 2022. In one vegetable sample, the residue content exceeded the maximum residue level set for conventional food products, and a total of 2 samples were found in violation of legislation on organic production.
1,724 imported products (both from EU countries and outside the EU) were examined, of which 71 batches (4%) were rejected as non-compliant due to residues of plant protection products. Eleven of these batches were organic products containing residues prohibited in organic production. In addition, 54 imported batches were given notices due to their PPP residue content. The residue levels of these batches were at, or slightly exceeded, the MRL but could not be verified as non-compliant due to the measurement uncertainty in the tests.
Of these non-compliant batches, 41 were food products imported directly from non-EU countries to Finland, and 32 batches were food products sold in the internal market, some of which originated from outside the EU. Product batches imported via another EU Member State that originate in third countries are also included in the statistics on intra-EU imports, and the non-compliances are even more frequently related to third countries than these figures indicate. Numerous non-compliances that resulted in the prohibition of import or entry to the market were detected in rice and tea.
Control measures
The competent food control authorities carried out the required control measures for all non-compliant products. Non-compliant products were prevented from entering the food product chain, and follow-up samples were taken from subsequent batches before releasing them to the market. Non-compliant product batches were destroyed in most cases. Recall measures were taken in line with the prudence principle for the items that had already been released to the market and which were identified as potentially endangering consumers in the risk assessment. In 2022, the total number of these product batches was 47.
Oiva results
Local food control authorities conducted a total of 26 inspections that focused on the adequacy and effectiveness of self-monitoring controls of PPP residues within the framework of the Oiva system (Oiva line 17.12). Only A ratings were issued in the Oiva inspections in 2022, meaning that no shortcomings were observed in the management of PPPs. The number of Oiva inspections of plant protection product residues was likely low in relation to the number of inspected sites. As the VATI system develops, an effort will be made to assess the number of sites to be inspected in more detail. The authorities are provided regular training, for example by the control network for contaminants and pesticide residues.