EU: Discussions on Increasing Nickel ML in Hazelnuts
According to FRUCOM, in recent technical meetings between the European Commission and Member States, an increase in the maximum level (ML) for nickel in hazelnuts from 3.5 to 4 mg/kg was discussed. This level was achieved based on a data set supplied by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).
EU: Chemicals Agency Supports PFAS Restriction
The two scientific committees of the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) have published opinions supporting EU-wide action to address the risks of per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).
The Risk Assessment Committee (RAC), in its final opinion, and the Socio-Economic Analysis Committee (SEAC), in its draft opinion, support an EU-wide restriction, subject to specific derogations, on the manufacture, placing on the market and use of PFAS.
Stakeholders are invited to submit comments on the SEAC draft opinion until May 25, 2026. SEAC is expected to adopt its final opinion, considering new information received in the consultation where relevant, by the end of 2026.
Japan: Plant Protection Products Update
Japan has notified the World Trade Organization (WTO) of draft maximum residue limits (MRLs) for the following agricultural chemicals:
| Substance | Commodity | MRL (ppm) |
| Chlorantraniliprole(1) | Apricots | 3 |
| Chlorantraniliprole(1) | Japanese plums (including prunes) | 3 |
| Chlorantraniliprole(1) | Grapes | 1 |
| Mepiquat chloride(2) | Grapes | 6 |
(1) Deadline for comments: May 30, 2026. More information
(2) Deadline for comments: May 30, 2026. More information
Nicaragua: Phytosanitary Requirements for US Shelled Almonds
Nicaragua has notified the World Trade Organization (WTO) of Resolution 153-2026-IPSA, which establishes phytosanitary requirements for the import of shelled almonds from the United States.
Shipments must be accompanied by an official phytosanitary certificate stating that the plant product has been inspected by the national plant protection organization of the country of origin. Shipments will also be subject to phytosanitary inspection and sampling for phytosanitary diagnosis at the agricultural quarantine station upon entry into Nicaragua.
Inspectors from Nicaragua’s Institute of Agricultural Protection and Health will verify compliance with the phytosanitary requirements and make decisions on requests for import authorization.