Potato store managers are being urged to submit data on chlorpropham (CIPC) residues from potatoes stored in facilities that were previously treated with CIPC.

According to the sector organisation GB Potatoes, potato storage facilities in the UK that once used CIPC may face the risk of becoming unusable due to lingering chemical residues.

The Chemical Regulations Division (CRD) has established a temporary Maximum Residue Level (tMRL) for CIPC at 0.35 mg/kg.

MORE NEWS | Nick Greaves sets new lamb shearing world record

MORE NEWS | Scientist hits back at nitrate research rebuke

This limit is upheld provided the potato sector can demonstrate its necessity. To do so, data must be submitted annually.

GB Potatoes stated: "Most growers can access residue data through their customers who routinely test samples for CIPC or through samples taken for Red Tractor; this data can then be anonymised and submitted.”

The CIPC Residue Monitoring Group (CRMG), a cross-industry organisation established to meet the CRD’s data submission requirements, coordinates this process.

Adrian Cunnington of Potato Storage Insight, the independent chair of CRMG, noted that they are still missing data from box stores in the fresh potato sector.

He continues to urge suppliers in this market who previously used CIPC to submit their residue data.

GB Potatoes warned: "Without this the industry could be facing the loss of stores to the legacy of CIPC if the MRL is set to limit of detection (0.01 ppm).”

Data can be sent to Adrian at adrian@potatostorageinsight.com, where it will be anonymised and submitted to CRD.