New neonicotinoids used in China: What changes for imports
Neonicotinoids are a class of systemic insecticides widely used in agriculture for insect control, as they act on the nervous system of target organisms.
In recent years, the use of new molecules belonging to this class in non-EU countries, particularly in China, has become increasingly relevant for food business operators importing raw materials and finished products.
Some of these next-generation neonicotinoids are not approved as active substances in Europe and, therefore, must not be present in foodstuffs intended for the EU market.
Among the main latest-generation neonicotinoids currently in use are:
- Paichongding
- Cycloxaprid
- Imidaclothiz
- Guadipyr
- Triflumezopyrim
- Flupyrimin
In this context, our Ravenna laboratory has developed a dedicated analytical method for their determination. The analysis can be performed on both conventional and organic products.
Regulatory framework
- For conventional products, in the absence of specific maximum residue limits (MRLs), Article 18 of Regulation (EC) No. 396/2005 applies, setting a default limit of 0.01 mg/kg for non-authorised substances.
- For organic products, the provisions of Decree No. 309 of 13 January 2011 apply, establishing the same limit of 0.010 mg/kg for accidental and technically unavoidable contamination.
Developed analytical method
The method developed by our Tentamus Agriparadigma laboratory allows the analysis of these compounds:
- through a single LC/MS/MS run;
- with a limit of quantification (LOQ) of 0.010 mg/kg;
- applicable to both conventional and organic products.
The ability to analyse multiple substances simultaneously represents a clear operational advantage for routine testing.
Applications and fields of use
The neonicotinoids considered are used on various crops, including:
- rice
- soybean
- vegetables
- citrus fruits
- tea
- maize and cotton
This makes their monitoring particularly relevant for food products originating from China and other Asian countries.
Control of imported products
The possibility of routinely testing for these new neonicotinoids allows to:
- verify regulatory compliance of imported products
- detect possible contamination by non-authorised substances
- strengthen controls along the food supply chain
How we can support you
Tentamus, through its specialised laboratories, supports food business operators in monitoring residues of non-authorised neonicotinoids and, more broadly, in managing compliance and safety of imported products.
In particular, our Ravenna laboratory can support you with:
- Specific and multi-residue analyses for pesticides and contaminants, including new neonicotinoids, using LC-MS/MS techniques
- Tailored control plans for raw materials and finished products, based on geographical origin and associated risk
- Evaluation of analytical results against EU regulatory limits (Reg. 396/2005) and requirements for organic products
- Continuous monitoring of supplies from non-EU countries, with a focus on China and Asian markets
- Sampling and analysis along the supply chain, including food, water, and surfaces, to ensure overall safety and quality
- Technical support for export controls, through integrated analytical plans and customised solutions
In support of analytical activities, thanks to the synergy with Pegaso Management (consulting company of the Tentamus Italia Group), it is also possible to integrate:
- Regulatory and quality consulting services
- Support in risk management and supplier qualification
- Definition of control plans and compliance strategies
This integrated approach combines analytical data with consulting support, facilitating risk management and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements across the entire supply chain.