Plant protection products: Cause for concern?
For some they're a risk as "toxins in the field", for others they are an important part of modern agriculture: When it comes to chemical plant protection products (pesticides), opinions differ widely. Reason enough for the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) to examine the topic in depth and from different perspectives. "Plant protection products - a cause for concern?" - this is the title of the 21st BfR Consumer Protection Forum from 9th to 10th June 2021 in Berlin, Kaiserin Friedrich-Haus, Robert-Koch-Platz 7 (online participation possible). "Many are not aware that plant protection products are also used in organic farming," says BfR President Professor Dr. Dr. Andreas Hensel. "This event is intended to bridge these gaps in knowledge, provide thorough information and provide a platform for discussion."
Link to programme flyer
How are plant protection products tested before they are approved, and how are they used in in the field? What about residues in food? Which risks are actually real, and which are only “perceived”? These are some of the questions raised at the Consumer Protection Forum. Speakers from science and agriculture as well as from the public authorities and non-governmental organisations are invited. Problems and perspectives surrounding PSM and their use will also be the topic of a concluding panel discussion. Curious? Questions and contributions are welcome throughout the forum please join in!
About the BfR
The German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) is a scientifically independent institution within the portfolio of the Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture (BMEL) in Germany. The BfR advises the Federal Government and the States ('Laender') on questions of food, chemical and product safety. The BfR conducts its own research on topics that are closely linked to its assessment tasks.