At the July meeting of the Standing Committee on Plants, Animals, Food and Feed (SCoPAFF), Denmark informed other EU member states of its decision to withdraw approval for 23 crop protection products. These products are based on active substances that fall under the definition of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). One of the breakdown products of these substances is trifluoroacetic acid (TFA), a compound known for its persistence in the environment and high mobility, especially in water.
Denmark based its decision on research showing elevated concentrations of TFA in groundwater, which it considers a serious environmental risk.
In the Netherlands, the Ctgb (Board for the Authorisation of Plant Protection Products and Biocides) is currently reviewing the Danish data to determine its implications for the Dutch context. Back in April, the Ctgb already urged the Dutch ministries of LNV (Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality) and IenW (Infrastructure and Water Management) to initiate a re-evaluation at the European level of all active substances that may produce TFA as a degradation product. The Ctgb emphasized the need for special attention to TFA leaching into groundwater.
Since the evaluation and authorization of active substances is a harmonized European responsibility, the Ctgb prefers a coordinated EU-wide approach. However, in light of Denmark’s decision, the Ctgb is also urging prompt action to address the issue.
Source: Ctgb
Frontpage photo: © Ctgb
Publication date:
Wed 23 Jul 2025