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Back to Gazette APVMA 5
Amendments to the Maximum Residue Limit Standard
The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) sets maximum residue limits (MRLs) of agricultural and veterinary chemicals in agricultural produce, particularly produce entering the food chain. These MRLs are set at levels which are not likely to be exceeded if the agricultural or veterinary chemicals are used in accordance with approved label instructions. At the same time the APVMA is satisfied, from dietary exposure assessment, that the levels are not an undue hazard to human health.
The MRL Standard lists MRLs of substances which may arise from the approved use of those substances or other substances, and provides the relevant residue definitions to which these MRLs apply.
The evaluation process takes into account studies on chemistry, metabolism, analytical methodology, residues, good agricultural practice, toxicology and dietary exposure. From time to time the evaluation process results in amendments to the MRL Standard. It should be noted that relevant MRLs are referred to Food Standards Australia New Zealand for incorporation into Standard 1.4.2 of the Food Standards Code entitled “Maximum Residue Limits”.
Note:
‘*’ denotes that the maximum residue limit (MRL) has been set at or about the limit of analytical quantitation (see: Residue Guideline No.4, Maximum Residue Limit Proposals ‘At or about the Limit of Analytical Quantitation’, published in NRA Gazette No.9, p44, 5/9/95).
‘T’ denotes that the MRL, residue definition or use is temporary to enable further experimental work to be carried out in Australia or overseas, and will be reconsidered at some future date.
The MRL Standard is also accessible via the APVMA web page http://www.apvma.gov.au/residues/mrl_standard.shtml
For further information please contact:
Joan Downing
Chemistry and Residues Program
Phone: 02 6210 4840
Fax: 02 6210 4820