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Proposals to Amend the New Zealand (Maximum Residue Limits of Agricultural Compounds) Food Standards 2008

13 Proposal to exempt Benzalkonium chloride from an MRL

It is proposed that an MRL exemption is set for benzalkonium chloride when used as a fungicide for kwifruti and olives. It is proposed that Schedule Two of the NZ (MRL) Food Standards 2008 be amended to include the following, this will be the resulting entry for benzalkonium chloride in Schedule Two of the NZ (MRL) Food Standards 2008.

Amendment Rationale

The proposed MRL exemption represents a new use pattern for benzalkonium chloride, the rapid chemical breakdown of this compound means it is not suitable to be managed against a concentration limit, and therefore it can be exempted from the requirement of an MRL.

Chemical Information

Good Agricultural Practice

Benzalkonium chloride is proposed for use as a fungicide for kiwifruit and olives. Application may be at a 17.5-23gai/ha up until the end of flowering.

Dietary Risk Assessment

No ADI has been set for benzalkonium chloride however it is used safely in many cleaning products and medicinal products such as eye drops and mouth washes. Trace amounts of benzalkonium may be consumed with no incident through accidental contamination of food and water with surface cleaners and dishwashing liquids. No dietary risk is expected through the use of benzalkonium on kiwifruit and olives.

Toxicological / Public Health Assessment

The exemption of benzalkonium chloride from an MRL to the conditions specified above is very unlikely to pose any health risks from consumption of the harvested commodity.

Other International MRLs

To meet New Zealand’s obligations under the Agreement on the Application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures the proposed MRL will be notified to the World Trade Organization. Any country may choose to comment if they believe the proposed MRL represents a barrier to their trade.