The European Federation of Origin Wines (EFOW) called on Tuesday 22 May for the use of copper compounds in the treatment of organic wines to be extended in the European Union.
As things stand, in the general regulations, there is no restriction on copper at EU level. It is for the individual countries to determine their own positions. However, for producers applying organic specifications, there is a limit of 30 kg per hectare.
The use of copper compounds as a phytosanitary substance is currently being re-evaluated at the EU level.
Sometime in June, the European Commission will make a proposal on the renewal or prohibition of approval for the next seven years. This proposal will thereafter be put to a vote of the member states.
Copper salts, a naturally occurring mineral, are the only fungicide product used for the treatment of organically grown vines that is effective against late blight and other diseases, the EFOW states.
“Without a positive decision on its homologation, winemakers will have no tools for dealing with these diseases as of 1st February 2019. The consequences would be dramatic for the production of wines, especially organic wines, and producers would have no choice but to use synthetic products”, the organisation argues.
On 25 May, the Standing Committee on Plants, Animals, Foodstuffs and Feed will have an initial exchange of views on this subject. (Original version in French by Lionel Changeur)