EU tightens MRLs for dimoxystrobin, ethephon and propamocarb from 19 August 2026

With Regulation (EU) 2026/215 (published on 30 January 2026), the European Commission has amended the maximum residue levels (MRLs) for dimoxystrobin, ethephon and propamocarb. This changes the annexes to Regulation (EC) No 396/2005. The new rules will apply from 19 August 2026 and will have a direct impact on trade in, among other things, fruit, vegetables, cereals and products of animal origin within the EU.

Dimoxystrobin removed from the market

Following the earlier decision not to renew the approval of dimoxystrobin, the existing MRLs are now also being withdrawn. In practice, this means that products must comply with the limit of determination. If residues are detected above this minimum measurable level, this may result in rejection. Growers and exporters supplying the EU will need to eliminate this substance from their supply chain.

Stricter assessment of ethephon

For ethephon, a plant growth regulator used, among other things, in fruit ripening, EFSA has lowered the acceptable daily intake. This results in amended MRLs, including:

• a reduction for apples
• a reduction to the limit of determination for blueberries
• a reduction for pineapples
• no change for walnuts
• for pears and grapes, the current levels will remain in place for the time being; a reassessment will follow within two years

Propamocarb: lower limit for lettuce

For propamocarb, a risk for lettuce could not be ruled out. The MRL for lettuce is therefore being lowered, based on safer cultivation practices.

Transition period

A transitional arrangement applies: products placed on the market before 19 August 2026 may, in principle, still comply with the previous MRLs. Exceptions to this are ethephon in apples and blueberries, and propamocarb in lettuce.

With these changes, the European Commission is bringing residue limits further into line with the latest scientific insights and further strengthening the level of consumer protection.

Do you have questions about what these changes mean for your products or export position? Please feel free to contact Q-Point for advice and support.

Source: EUR-Lex – Regulation (EU) 2026/215
https://eur-lex.europa.eu/