3% of the samples tested were found to be non-compliant
A total of 1,828 samples were tested as part of pesticide residue control in 2024. Taking the measurement uncertainty into account, the maximum residue level (MRL) of pesticides determined in legislation was exceeded in 59 samples (3 % of samples).
A total of 117 samples were taken from Finnish products in 2024. The MRL for pesticide residues was exceeded in one lettuce sample. Proper control activities were carried out and a follow-up sample was taken and analyzed as non.compliant as well. A total of 32 samples were found to contain residues below the MRL. In three samples, residues of an active substance not authorised for use on the plant in question in Finland were detected. However, all these products were below the MRL and were therefore compliant as foodstuffs.
1,711 imported products (both from EU countries and outside the EU) were examined, of which 58 batches (3 %) were rejected as non-compliant due to pesticide residues. In addition, 94 imported batches were given notices due to their pesticide residue content. The residue levels of these batches were at, or slightly exceeded, the MRL but could not be verified as non-compliant due to the measurement uncertainty of the analyzes.
Of these non-compliant batches, 55 were food products imported directly from non-EU countries to Finland, and 3 batches were food products sold in the internal market. Numerous non-compliances that resulted in the prohibition of import or entry to the market were detected in fresh fruit and vegetables, rice, tea and spices.
Control measures
The competent food control authorities carried out the required control measures for all non-compliant products. Non-compliant products were prevented from entering the food product chain, and follow-up samples were taken from subsequent batches before releasing them to the market. Non-compliant product batches were destroyed in most cases. Recall measures were taken in line with the prudence principle for the items that had already been released to the market and which were identified as potentially endangering consumers in the risk assessment. In 2024, the total number of these product batches was 29, of which 5 were different supplements from single import batch.
Oiva results
Local food control authorities conducted a total of 32 inspections that focused on the adequacy and effectiveness of self-monitoring controls of pesticide residues within the framework of the Oiva system (Oiva line 17.12). 29 of A-ratings were issued in the Oiva inspections in 2023, meaning that no shortcomings were observed in the management of pesticide residues. Two inspections were graded B and instructions were given, and one inspection was graded C, “to be corrected”. The number of Oiva inspections of pesticide residues was likely low in relation to the number of inspected sites. As the VATI system develops, an effort will be made to assess the number of sites to be inspected in more detail. The authorities are provided regular training, for example by the control network for contaminants and pesticide residues.