Indoxacarb, famoxadone, and mancozeb are three frequently used fungicides that the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) says facing potential withdrawal from the UK market.

After reviewing these active ingredients, the HSE discovered issues with their safety and potential effects on the environment.

There are several possible causes for withdrawal –

• Mancozeb: Exposure levels for farmers and bystanders beyond acceptable limits and new research indicates that it may interfere with hormones in both humans and wildlife.
• Famoxadone: Evaluations show that using famoxadone poses an intolerable risk to birds.
• Indoxacarb: Non-dietary exposure, such as through inhalation, for workers and residents living near treated areas is found to be too high.

The HSE proposes that the UK withdraw the applications for all three drugs. Farmers and producers who depend on these fungicides to protect their crops from disease would be greatly impacted by this decision. The World Trade Organization will now receive the proposal’s details for review in conjunction with other nations.

The possibility of withdrawal raises concern about probable agricultural disruptions and the necessity for alternative fungal control measures. Industry groups are expected to express their concerns and potentially propose mitigation measures in the upcoming consultation period.

Reference:

https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKHSE/bulletins/383bc64