EU Sets Maximum Residue Levels for Lambda-Cyhalothrin in Poultry and Egg Products

On June 5, 2024, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) published a targeted risk assessment on the maximum residue levels (MRLs) of lambda-cyhalothrin in poultry meat/muscle, fat, liver, kidney, edible offal, and bird's eggs.

According to the risk assessment results, EFSA concluded that the proposed temporary MRLs of 0.03 mg/kg for poultry products and 0.02 mg/kg for eggs are unlikely to pose a risk to consumer health. These temporary MRLs were derived by the European Commission based on monitoring data provided by EU member states and compiled by EFSA.

The assessment was conducted in accordance with Article 43 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005, which allows the European Commission to request EFSA to perform a targeted risk assessment for pesticide residues. EFSA evaluated the acute (short-term) and chronic (long-term) dietary exposure to lambda-cyhalothrin through the consumption of poultry and egg products at the proposed temporary MRL levels.

The full EFSA opinion is available online at https://efsa.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.2903/j.efsa.2024.8816. This assessment provides important guidance for regulators and the food industry to ensure the safety of poultry and egg products for European consumers.