Reasoned opinion on the modification of the existing MRLs for methoxyfenozide in various leafy vegetables

In accordance with Article 6 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005, Spain, herewith referred to as the evaluating Member State (EMS), received an application from the company Dow AgroSciences to modify the existing MRLs for the active substance methoxyfenozide in leafy vegetables and fresh herbs (except vine leaves, water cress and witloof). In order to accommodate for the intended use of methoxyfenozide in the SEU, the EMS proposed to raise the existing MRLs in these crops (except in scarole) from the limit of quantification (LOQ) of 0.02 mg/kg to 4 mg/kg. Spain drafted an evaluation report according to Article 8 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005, which was submitted to the European Commission and forwarded to EFSA. EFSA considers that the submitted supervised residue trials are sufficient to support the proposed residue data extrapolation from lettuce to other crops under consideration and to derive a MRL proposal of 4 mg/kg for the proposed use on lettuce and other salad plants including Brassicaceae, the whole group of spinach and similar leaves and the whole group of herbs. Adequate analytical enforcement methods are available to control the residues of methoxyfenozide in the commodities under consideration. EFSA concludes that the intended uses on the leafy vegetables under consideration (except on scarole) will not result in a consumer exposure exceeding the toxicological reference values and therefore will not pose a public health concern. EFSA confirms the conclusion of the EMS that the intended use of methoxyfenozide on scarole is not acceptable due to acute consumer intake concerns identified.