Maximum Quantities for Pesticides

In Europe, regulation (EC) no. 396/2005 from 23 February 2005 applies. This stipulates the maximum content of pesticide residues in and on foods and animal feed of herbal and animal origin. Consumption of products that do not exceed the maximum quantities is considered safe. Special foods – such as baby foods or organic products – are subject to special regulations (German regulations on foods for special dietary uses (Diätverordnung), baby food directives 2003/13/EC, 2003/14/EC, regulation on the organic production of agricultural products 2092/91/EC).

Maximum values for medicinal plants

For pharmaceuticals, European Pharmacopoeia (Ph. Eur. 2.8.13) specifies maximum quantities for 70 pesticides that are frequently found in herbal medicines. For substances not named in Ph.Eur. 2.8.13., the maximum quantities put forth in regulation (EC) no. 396/2005 apply.