Maximum Residue Level for Mercury in Honey and Other Hive Products

EU Regulation Establishes Maximum Residue Level for the First Time

On 19^th January 2018, Regulation (EU) 2018/73 was published in the European Official Journal. This was the first time that a maximum residue level (MRL) for mercury (total mercury compounds) of 0.01 mg/kg was established for honey and hive products. The MRL entered into force on 7^th February 2018.

Council Directive 79/117 / EEC prohibited the placing on the market and use of plant protection products containing mercury compounds. This new regulation for MRLs for mercury is based on current monitoring data, which show positive findings above the previously stipulated maximum levels. However, the detected residues of mercury compounds are attributed to environmental contamination. A review of maximum residue levels will be carried out within 10 years of the date of publication of this Regulation on the basis of at that time updated information.

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Relevant Documents

• Commission Regulation (EU) 2018/73 as regards maximum residue levels for mercury compounds in or on certain products