Agrichemical update – Growers advised to check products for chlorpyrifos

Agrichemical update – Growers advised to check products for chlorpyrifos

21 December 2018

Citrus growers have been advised to determine whether any pesticides they use contain chlorpyrifos, which is under review in the USA and Australia.
On 9 August 2018, the United States Federal Appeals Court ruled that all chlorpyrifos residue limits will be deleted in the USA within 60 days. The 60-day period has now passed and a re-hearing is underway. This has created a large amount of uncertainty in the USA as well as for Australian growers who export to the USA. Citrus Australia’s recommends a precautionary approach and growers need to consider the long residue effect if supplying to the USA.
Chlorpyrifos is also currently under review by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) and its report on that review is expected early next year.

Products that include chlorpyrifos include:
• Lorsban 500 EC
• Strike-Out 500 EC
• Cyren PC
• Lorsban 750 WG
• Cyren 500 WP
• Surefire Fortune 500 Multi-Purpose
• Strike-Out 500 WP
• Chlorphos 500EC

Citrus Australia Market Access Manager, David Daniels, said chlorpyrifos is an important pest management tool in Australia and is used widely.
“Citrus Australia will continue to work with industry, regulators, Hort Innovation and product registrants to examine all options, including alternative crop protection products to help growers manage pests effectively and access export markets,” Mr Daniels said.
“At this stage, we are unable to provide any further advice, but we will keep the industry informed of any developments as they come to light.”