EU moves to tighten pesticide residue limits on imports under food and feed overhaul

The European Commission has proposed lowering maximum residue levels (MRLs) for certain pesticides on imported food and feed products to the “limit of quantification,” effectively setting a zero-tolerance threshold for substances not approved in the European Union. The measure is part of a draft Food and Feed Omnibus package published on December 16, 2025, which would amend Regulation (EC) No 396/2005 governing pesticide residues.

According to a USDA report prepared by the U.S. Mission to the EU in Brussels, the proposal could affect U.S. exports of soybeans, corn, tree nuts, and other commodities valued at more than USD 5.4 billion annually. The draft legislation would allow the EU to revoke existing import tolerances for pesticides not authorized within the bloc and reset residue limits to technical zero following an impact assessment. U.S. industry groups have raised concerns that the approach departs from a risk-based framework aligned with international standards, such as those developed by the Codex Alimentarius Commission.

The proposal also launches an impact assessment to examine the trade and competitiveness implications of aligning EU production standards with requirements for imported goods. While the omnibus package includes measures to streamline approvals for biological plant protection products, feed additives, and biocides, the pesticide provisions are expected to face scrutiny from trading partners. The draft is open for public feedback through April 10, 2026, and WTO members may submit comments through March 30, 2026.

Sources: USDA Foreign Agricultural Service