French authorities announced an immediate suspension on the import of food products from countries outside the European Union that contain residues of certain plant protection products (PPPs) prohibited within the EU. The measure specifically targets the active substances Carbendazim, Benomyl, Glufosinate, Thiophanate-methyl, and Mancozeb, which are not authorized for use in the European Union.
The restriction applies to specific food commodities listed in the official annex and prohibits the import, introduction, and placing on the French market of foodstuffs containing quantifiable residues of these substances, whether the products are sold commercially or distributed free of charge.
This precautionary measure aims to safeguard consumer health and ensure that imported products comply with EU food safety and pesticide regulations. The Order entered into force the day after its publication (5 January 2026) and will remain applicable until the European Commission adopts EU-wide measures or, if no such action is taken, for a maximum period of one year.
An exemption is provided for food products already purchased by importers within one month of the Order’s entry into force. Food business operators are expected to implement appropriate due diligence measures, including verifying product origin, reviewing treatment histories, and conducting pesticide residue testing where necessary to ensure compliance.
Consumer News Region