European Union bans caffeine in pesticides as ‘harmful to humans’

In a decisive move, The European Union has banned the use of caffeine as an active ingredient in pesticides, responding to health concerns outlined by scientific studies. The ban follows an application by the French company Progarein, which sought approval to use caffeine to protect cabbages and potatoes from pest infestations.

Caffeine, a familiar stimulant found predominantly in coffee, faces scrutiny as a popular beverage and now in agricultural applications. Europe, being recognized as the world’s largest coffee-consuming market, must now adjust to this new regulatory environment.

The European Commission’s decision was influenced by findings from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), which highlighted several health risks associated with caffeine. According to the EFSA, caffeine can adversely affect the cardiovascular system, body hydration, and temperature regulation. It also impacts the central nervous system, causing sleep disturbances, anxiety, and behavioral changes in both adults and children. Pregnant women may face risks too, with potential adverse outcomes related to birth weight.

Reviewing Progarein’s application, EFSA expressed concerns over inadequate data to assess non-dietary risks to individuals exposed indirectly to caffeine, such as operators, workers, bystanders, and residents living near treated fields. Highlighting another significant risk, the EFSA noted that the proposed usage of caffeine in pesticides would lead to concentrations in drinking water that far exceed safety limits. This could lead to considerable exposure through surface water, posing additional environmental and health hazards.

Concluding its assessment, the European Commission determined that the risks associated with using caffeine in pesticides could not be mitigated, leading to its prohibition in efforts to safeguard public health and the environment.

Source: Independent