Regulatory framework in the European Union governing the use of basic substances in conventional and organic production

Basic substances are a group of substances that have recently been regulated to give legislative coverage to common products such as vinegar, beer, milk and sugar, traditionally used by farmers for crop protection, and which may also include foodstuffs. They are regulated by article 23 of Regulation (EC) N. 1107/2009 concerning the placing of plant protection products on the market. According to this article, basic substances are not predominantly used as plant protection products but may be of value for plant protection. They do not have an immediate or delayed harmful effect on human or animal health nor an unacceptable effect on the environment. This review analyses the process for approval for basic substances under current European rules. Furthermore, every approved basic substance in the EU, at the time of writing, is described in detail in relation to its activity in plant protection. Considering that the use of basic substances is particularly important for organic farming, basic substances authorized in organic production under current organic legislation and under the new Regulation (EU) 2018/848 on organic production that will apply from 1 January 2022 repealing Council Regulation (EC) N. 834/2007 are reported. Finally, the review highlights the positive aspects and critical issues of basic substances.

Automated summary

This review examines the approval process for basic substances under current European rules and provides detailed information on the activity of each approved basic substance in plant protection. The importance of basic substances in organic farming is emphasized, and the report includes information on basic substances authorized for organic production under current and new organic production regulations. The review highlights the positive aspects and critical issues of basic substances.