17 january 2023
RHP has been scanning, for some time now, supplied product samples of a number of raw materials for any residues of pesticides that may be present. Think of raw materials including compost, bark, wood fibre, coir products, organic fertilisers, clay, but also growing media and potting soil. RHP wants to build up more knowledge about the presence and risks of residues in raw materials for crops.
More and more demands are being made by the users regarding the presence of residues (of pesticides) in growing media. However, in many organic raw materials it is unavoidable that residues of substances are found. What acceptable limits are, however, is not known.
RHP analyses, for example, which pesticide residues are found in different raw materials and which levels are involved. Examples of pesticides are herbicides, growth regulators, fungicides and insecticides. For a year now, it has also been analysed whether the residues in those levels are taken up by crops grown on them. And whether this is dangerous for a person who eats the crop.
Selected product samples of raw materials that certified companies supply for a plant response test, RHP also scans for residues. If something is found, the crop that was used for this test will be further analysed. In addition, it is possible to provide product samples specifically for a residue scan.
A lot of research is still needed in this area. Over time, RHP wants to collect data on residues found in raw materials and gain more insight into what really happens and how bad that is for the crop or humans in case of edible crops. After that, it becomes possible to work on standard development for the RHP quality mark and new requirements can be included in the product certification scheme.
