Extra-EU exporters of grapes would face the biggest problems were sulphur dioxide pads banned

Extra-EU exporters of grapes would face the biggest problems were sulphur dioxide pads banned

Pressure from the Scandinavian markets has caused widespread panic among grape producers fearful that the use of sulphur dioxide pads could be outlawed by the European Commission.

European trade representative body Freshfel met with Commission officials and representatives of member states on Monday, to clarify the situation of active ingredient sodium metabisulphite, which is used extensively on table grapes during transport and storage to inhibit the development of botrytis.

The concerns arose after Norway’s food standards agency challenged the validity of the ingredient on grapes entering the country. Non-government pressure groups and other Scandinavian countries, notably Denmark, moved the debate on to the EC. A fierce defence of the use of sulphur pads was mounted by Spain, Italy and France, while exporters in third countries that stand to lose most were alerted to the potential crisis and made their views known. European producers would be affected too, as stored fruit would effectively be prohibited.

The worst-case scenario is that a ban would leave Europe without a large proportion of its table grapes. “Freshfel Europe has provided a loud voice on behalf of the industry to state the problems surrounding a potential EU ban and indeed to fight for the continued use of this treatment,” said the Freshfel secretariat. “As a potential ban could significantly restrict trade flows and consumer choice, Freshfel is seeking urgent clarification on the use of SO2 for the fresh produce industry.

“Through its concerted activity with its members, Freshfel is seeking the inclusion of table grapes in the EU list of commodities to which SO2 can be tolerated,” the organisation said.

Freshfel recommended a maximum residue level of 10mg/kg, which is line with existing international practices. The continued use of sodium metabisulphite would require the addition of table grapes to food additives legislation (Directive 95/2/EC) controlling the use of sulphur dioxide. Freshfel is collating the necessary information to secure a tolerance.

Topics