EU member state representatives have agreed on scientific criteria for identifying pesticides as having a potentially harmful effect on the human hormone system.
Member states voted in favour of a European Commission proposal for identifying endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in plant protection products on 4 July. The proposal is part of broader work by the Commission to regulate the chemicals used in agriculture, cosmetics, toys and food packaging.
EDCs can contribute to serious health issues, such as diabetes, obesity and infertility, but identifying them is not easy. Previously, Sweden, Denmark and France complained about the high burden of proof required in the Commission’s proposal, and wanted not only “known” but also “possible” EDCs to be included. A last-minute change of position by France secured the proposal’s approval.
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