Step 5 Residue Analysis

Your risk assessments will have determined which crops and countries of origin pose low, medium or high risk of containing pesticide residues. To determine the frequency of residue testing, together with the type of tests (e.g. specific testing for low risk, multi residue for high and medium risk) you will also need to consider: Audit results Procurement changes Pesticide changes Historical analysis results PRC testing schedule Volume delivered Past Exceedences Where residues have occurred consider the following options to eliminate or reduce residue levels and occurances: alternative Co-op approved pesticides reduced application rates lengthening of harvest intervals

Laboratory Standards UK laboratory should be NAMAS, GLP or UKAS approved for pesticide analysis: ISO 17025. The laboratory of your choice should volunteer to take part in the FAPAS scheme to assess accuracy. The scheme is voluntary, spiked samples test labs accuracy and scope for all pesticides.  http://www.fapas.com/

2.5. Pesticide Analysis An annual programme of pesticide analysis must be in place for products that are to be supplied to Co-operative Retail. A risk assessment must be in place to support the pesticide analysis programme. The analysis must include all active ingredients applied as a minimum, in addition, reference should also be made to proposed pesticide lists, Cooperative Retail pesticide lists, external or internal information, historical data and any current concerns. In some circumstances the Multi-residue Screen offered by many laboratories will not cover all active ingredients identified and thus further individual analyses will be required. Residue analysis must be undertaken by a NAMAS or UKAS accredited laboratory. Details of all results should be forwarded to Co-operative Retail on an annual basis. All results must be held for a minimum of 5 years. All pesticide residues should be below the EU, UK Maximum Residue Level and the Codex levels. In addition, Co-operative Retail will manage and maintain a programme of pesticide residue analysis with samples being drawn from produce in depot. A reputable third party laboratory will undertake analysis and details of analytical results will be communicated to the product supplier for appropriate investigation. Costs for this analysis will be borne by the suppliers involved.CoP

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Step 6