Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-002162/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Eric Sargiacomo (S&D)
At the request of Germany, the expert group for technical advice on organic production (EGTOP) is going to, for the third time (having issued two negative opinions), give their assessment on whether potassium phosphonate should be introduced into the legislation on organic farming. This synthetic substance might therefore be included in Annex I to Regulation (EU) 2021/1165 as a phytosanitary treatment against downy mildew on grapevine.
However, adding it would be at odds with the basic regulation, Regulation (UE) 2018/848, which governs organic farming. In fact, Article 5(g) expresses the need for ‘the restriction of the use of external inputs; where external inputs are required or the appropriate management practices and methods referred to in point (f) do not exist, the external inputs shall be limited to natural or naturally-derived substances’.
In addition, using synthetic potassium phosphonate would be a stumbling block to clear communication on organic farming, as it would mean that consumers cannot be told ‘no synthetic pesticides used’, which is the main promise organic farming makes to EU citizens.
- 1.In the undesired event that potassium phosphonate is authorised for use in organic farming, what would the legal implications be?
- 2.Would a revision of the legislation on organic farming be required as a result?
Submitted: 28.5.2025