Urgent Call: Submit Your CIPC Residue Data to Safeguard UK Potato Storage Infrastructure

As of April 10th, 2024, the Chemicals Regulation Division (CRD) has set a temporary Maximum Residue Level (tMRL) for chlorpropham (CIPC) at 0.35 mg/kg.  This threshold is reviewed annually, and its continuation depends entirely on whether we, as an industry, can provide evidence that it’s still needed.

Why This Matters

CIPC was a staple in sprout suppression for decades.  But the legacy residues it leaves behind are now putting our storage capacity at risk.  If we can’t demonstrate that a tMRL above the limit of detection (0.01 ppm) is still necessary, stores with historic CIPC use may no longer be usable.  The consequences for growers, packers, and the wider supply chain would be significant.

Data collected last year shows that without the tMRL, 22.5% of storage facilities would have exceeded the detection limit.  These stores would not have been permitted for use had the limit been set to the detection threshold.  That’s why it’s so important to keep the data flowing.

How You Can Help

Most growers already have access to the necessary data.  It often comes through:

• Customer testing of potato samples

• Red Tractor certification sampling

This is where the CIPC Residue Monitoring Group (CRMG) steps in.  CRMG coordinates the anonymised data submission to CRD on behalf of the entire industry.

Submitting Your Data Is Easy

1. Send your residue data to Adrian Cunnington at adrian@potatostorageinsight.com
2. Adrian will anonymise your data before submitting it to CRD.
3. That’s all it takes.

What We Need for 2025

For the 2025 CRD submission, CRMG needs at least 125 new samples.  If you have potato stores previously treated with CIPC and are holding crops for at least two months this season, please provide at least one of your regular multi-residue test results.

You can find the simple data form here: Download the Sample Proforma

Just complete the form and attach a copy of your lab result.  It couldn’t be easier—and your contribution is vital.

Take Action Now

Help us protect the UK’s potato storage infrastructure.