Ensuring Pulse Crops Meet Global Pesticide Standards
The Canadian pulse industry plays a vital role in the agricultural sector, exporting to over 130 countries. Ensuring these exports comply with stringent pesticide Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) in global markets is critical.
Differing MRLs between Canada and other countries necessitate heightened vigilance and understanding among growers.
The "Keep it Clean" campaign equips Canadian pulse growers with essential tools and resources to navigate these regulatory waters effectively.
Through this initiative, growers receive guidance to not only meet but exceed the MRL standards required by international markets, thereby avoiding potential trade issues.
One of the pivotal aspects of maintaining market access is the strict non-use of glufosinate-ammonium on pulses, barring a few exceptions under tightly controlled conditions.
Despite its registration in Western Canada for specific uses in lentils, the potential risk of exceeding MRLs makes its application on pulses highly inadvisable and, in many cases, illegal.
The campaign stresses the importance of using only approved pesticides and adhering to the product labels for application rates, timing, and pre-harvest intervals. Missteps in pesticide application can lead to significant trade disruptions, underscoring the necessity for meticulous compliance.
To further assist growers, the "Keep it Clean" initiative provides continuous updates and educational resources through newsletters and social media platforms.
These platforms encourage community engagement and information dissemination across the industry to reinforce best practices.
Growers are encouraged to visit the Keep it Clean website, which offers a wealth of information on compliant pesticide use and other practices to keep pulses market ready.
The site provides specific guidelines and actionable insights that help mitigate risks associated with non-compliance.
For more detailed guidelines and updates, visit the Keep it Clean campaign at Keep it Clean Glufosinate Information.
Photo Credit: Keep It Clean