EU Updates Regulation EU No 547/2011 on the Labelling of Plant Protection Products

The European Union has taken an important step to improve the safety and transparency of plant protection products by updating Regulation (EU) No 547/2011. The proposed updates aim to harmonise labelling standards, improve risk communication to end-users, and strengthen safety measures while supporting sustainability goals. This updated legislation seeks to make information clearer and more accessible to farmers and other users, while also aligning with the EU's Farm to Fork strategy. It is important that all users of plant protection products understand these significant improvements.

Key Changes in the Updated Regulation

• Standardised Risk Mitigation Phrases: Clear and concise language will be provided. These phrases will be grouped according to evaluations of the risks to the environment and human health.

• Enhanced Bee Safety: Agrochemicals, that may endanger bees will be prominently marked with a particular phrase and symbol.

• Micro-organism Sensitization Warnings: Precautionary statements will be included to warn and alert consumers to the possible sensitisation effects of micro-organisms used in plant protection products.

• Combating Illegal Trade: Plant protection products covered by ‘a parallel trade permit’ will be required to carry a special label that includes the batch number, date of manufacture date, permit number, and details about the permission holder.

• Improved Research Labelling: Plant protection products used in research and development must have clearer labelling instructions that highlight their experimental nature and the need for utmost caution.

• Improved Disposal Guidance: To reduce packaging waste, standardised language will be used to instruct consumers on how to properly dispose of plant protection product containers.

• Colour-coded Labelling: To quicky communicate the hazard status of active ingredients, the presence of micro-organisms, and whether the product is approved as low-risk, a colour-coded scheme shall be used on labels.

• Accessibility of Digital Labelling: Digital labels will be made available to users through links or machine-readable forms, including features such as voice assistance, auto-search, larger fonts, and multilingual support.

Feedback Period

Public consultation: Open from January 6, 2025, to February 3, 2025.

Expected Entry into Force:  January 1, 2026.’

The revised regulation supports the Farm to Fork strategy, which seeks to reduce dependency on chemical plant protection products. By improving labelling clarity and risk communication, the EU seeks to help consumers make informed choices while minimising risks to the environment, animal health, and human health.

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