Online Training Modules - Center of Excellence for Regulatory Science in Agriculture

Maximum Residue Limits (MRL) 101 Series

Maximum Residue Limits (MRL) is a perimeter to which pesticide residues are within tolerance on crops we consume. MRLs primary objective is to protect consumer health while facilitating international trade pesticide residues are the remaining compounds of a pesticide after harvest.

CODEX Alimentarius Overview

The Codex Committee on Pesticide Residues (CCPR) is a subsidiary body of the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC) that advises on all matters related to pesticide residues. Its primary objective is to develop Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs), in order to protect the health of the consumer while facilitating international trade. Before the EPA can register a pesticide that is used on raw agricultural products, it must establish a tolerance (MRL) or exemption from the requirement of a tolerance. A tolerance (MRL) is established to account for the highest pesticide residue level that is expected based on pesticide applications, made in accordance with the use directions listed on the registered product label. One of the primary functions of a tolerance (MRL) is an enforcement to ensure compliance with the registered label.

Pesticide Risk Assessments

Assessing Pesticide Risk: In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is responsible for assessing the risk associated with pesticides and make decisions pertaining to registration and MRLs.