Next Article in Journal
Dually Responsive Poly(N-vinylcaprolactam)-b-poly(dimethylsiloxane)-b-poly(N-vinylcaprolactam) Polymersomes for Controlled Delivery
Next Article in Special Issue
Effect of Biodegradable Coatings on the Growth of Aspergillus flavus In Vitro, on Maize Grains, and on the Quality of Tortillas during Storage
Previous Article in Journal
Effective Components and Molecular Mechanism of Agarwood Essential Oil Inhalation and the Sedative and Hypnotic Effects Based on GC-MS-Qtof and Molecular Docking
Previous Article in Special Issue
Antimicrobial Activities of Plant Extracts against Solanum tuberosum L. Phytopathogens
 
 
Font Type:
Arial Georgia Verdana
Font Size:
Aa Aa Aa
Line Spacing:
Column Width:
Background:
Review

Basic Substances, a Sustainable Tool to Complement and Eventually Replace Synthetic Pesticides in the Management of Pre and Postharvest Diseases: Reviewed Instructions for Users

by
Gianfranco Romanazzi
1,*,
Yann Orçonneau
2,
Marwa Moumni
1,
Yann Davillerd
2 and
Patrice André Marchand
2
1
Department of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences, Marche Polytechnic University, Via Brecce Bianche, 60131 Ancona, Italy
2
Institut Technique de l’Agriculture et de l’Alimentation Biologiques (ITAB), 149 rue de Bercy, 75012 Paris, France
*
Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Submission received: 15 April 2022 / Revised: 17 May 2022 / Accepted: 24 May 2022 / Published: 28 May 2022

Abstract

:
Synthetic pesticides are widely used to protect crops from pathogens and pests, especially for fruits and vegetables, and this may lead to the presence of residues on fresh produce. Improving the sustainability of agriculture and, at the same time, reducing the adverse effects of synthetic pesticides on human health requires effective alternatives that improve the productivity while maintaining the food quality and safety. Moreover, retailers increasingly request fresh produce with the amounts of pesticides largely below the official maximum residue levels. Basic substances are relatively novel compounds that can be used in plant protection without neurotoxic or immune-toxic effects and are still poorly known by phytosanitary consultants (plant doctors), researchers, growers, consumers, and decision makers. The focus of this review is to provide updated information about 24 basic substances currently approved in the EU and to summarize in a single document their properties and instructions for users. Most of these substances have a fungicidal activity (calcium hydroxide, chitosan, chitosan hydrochloride, Equisetum arvense L., hydrogen peroxide, lecithins, cow milk, mustard seed powder, Salix spp., sunflower oil, sodium chloride, sodium hydrogen carbonate, Urtica spp., vinegar, and whey). Considering the increasing requests from consumers of fruits and vegetables for high quality with no or a reduced amount of pesticide residues, basic substances can complement and, at times, replace the application of synthetic pesticides with benefits for users and for consumers. Large-scale trials are important to design the best dosage and strategies for the application of basic substances against pathogens and pests in different growing environments and contexts.

1. Introduction

The world population continues to grow and will reach 9.7 billion by 2050 [1]. For this, increasing food production is the primary objective of all countries. According to the latest estimates of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations [2], up to 40% of food crops worldwide are lost every year due to pests and plant diseases. Crop losses caused by plant disease alone cost the global economy $220 billion annually [3]. Crop protection is essential to reduce yield losses, improve food quality, and increase grower profitability. The application of plant protection products (PPPs) is the main way to protect crops against pathogens, pests, and weeds [4]. However, human, animal, and environmental risks associated with the use of chemical PPPs are a growing concern. All these concerns have encouraged the onset of research to develop alternative approaches to control plant diseases [5]. Reducing the use of pesticides being a major challenge in developed countries, European Union Member States are required to implement National Action Plans that set quantitative objectives, timetables, and indicators related to reducing the impact of pesticide use (Directive 2009/128/CE) [6,7]. The use of basic substances is approved in the European Union under Article 23 of EC Regulation No 1107/2009 and which are listed in Part C of the Annex of the Regulation (EC) No 540/2011 [8]. In the EU, Integrated Pest Management (IPM) has been mandatory since January 2014, and among the rules of the IPM is the reduction of the application of synthetic pesticides whenever possible [9]. For sustainable and qualitative food production, respectful of the need to produce in sufficient quantities, biocontrol has grown tremendously through the last few years [10]. The PPP EU Regulation (EC) 1107/2009 was established to ensure a level of protection of humans, animals, and the environment and, at the same time, to unify for the entire EU the rules on the placing on the market of plant protection products [11,12]. Basic substances are sources of interest for research as alternative to synthetic pesticides, since they are used in human medicine or as a food ingredient, so they have no residue concerns and then no maximum residue limit (MRL) and, usually, no preharvest interval [13,14]. The lack of MRL contributes to a better prevention of contamination in plant protection, a better control of the residues and a reduction of analytical problems, of decommissioning, and of market withdrawal [14]. Another benefit of basic substances, and perhaps the most important, is their very low ecologic impact. Basic substances are products that are used as ‘foodstuffs’, as defined in Article 2 of Regulation (EC) 178/2002 [15] cosmetic, and does not have an inherent capacity to cause endocrine-disrupting, neurotoxic or immunotoxic effects, but they are also plant protection means and not placed on the market as a plant protection product. Article 28 of Regulation (EC) No. 1107/2009 set the absence of marketing authorizations and usages allowance for basic substances. Regulation (EC) No. 1107/2009 introduced the new category of ‘basic substances’, which are defined by recital 18 as ‘certain substances which are not predominantly used as plant protection products may be of value for plant protection, but the economic interest of applying for approval may be limited. Therefore, specific provisions should ensure that such substances, as far as their risks are acceptable, may also be approved for plant protection use’. The properties of basic substances are described in Article 23 of the EU Regulation (EC) No 1107/2009 [11]. In 2021, the Euphresco project ‘BasicS’ contributed to demonstrate the effectiveness toward pests and pathogens of basic substances, with potential benefits for the farmers, the consumer, and the environment [16,17]. The basic substances have a positive impact on crop health when applied preventively. Certain basic substances, such as chitosan, stimulate the defense system of crops against several classes of pathogens, including fungi, viruses, bacteria, and phytoplasma [18]. According to the EU pesticides database, 24 basic substances were approved for use, 7 were withdrawn, 18 applications were not approved and 8 are still pending [19,20]. This review includes currently approved basic substances that have a protective potential and are a valuable addition to the range of measures and protection methods intended for use. Detailed information about basic substances and updates on new available compounds can be found at the page https://ec.europa.eu/food/plant/pesticides/eu-pesticides-database/active-substances (accessed on 23 May 2022). The standard-folder for approval of a basic substance, called ‘Basic Substance Application Template (BSAT)’, is based on the structure of the European Union evaluation report of an active substance that can be used for plant protection purposes. BSAT refers to all areas of risk assessment in the regulation of phytopharmaceutical product uses and shall be considered as a structured model to build a file collating all available information and enabling to demonstrate that the evaluated substance meets the eligibility criteria of a basic substance (SANCO 10,363 rev.10, 2021). Therefore, nowadays, a full deposit under International Uniform ChemicaL Information Database (IUCLID) software is mandatory since March 2021. Basic substances are submitted individually (Annex I inclusion dossier) at the first stage; then, later, an automatic inclusion was adopted for food/foodstuff basic substance from plant or animal origin [21,22]. Recently, an automatic consideration procedure (without any Annex I inclusion dossier) by Expert Group for Technical advice on Organic Production (EGTOP)/Directorate-General for the Agriculture and Rural Development (DGAgri) of positive ongoing basic substance approval (from Directorate-General Health and Food Safety—DGSanté to DGAgri) to generate an automatic EGTOP/DGAgri outcome for inclusion (or not). This provision bypasses the traditional route of substances in organic production in plant protection through dossiers submitted to Member States, but so far, no basic substance has been rejected by the Regulatory Committee of Organic Production (RCOP), and with the current procedure, are no longer studied than substances of mineral origin (or non-foods).
This review aimed to highlight the properties of approved basic substances, summarize, and provide this information for phytosanitary consultants, scientists, growers, stakeholders, companies, and consumers.

2. Results

Out of the 86 basic substance application submitted to the European Commission until now, less than one-third have been approved (24) (Table 1 and Table 2), 19 have been refused, 6 have been withdrawn during their assessment (Table 3), 8 are currently being processed by the EC (Table 4 and Figure 1), and 2 already successfully submitted via IUCLID software (Ginger extract and Capsicum frutescens).
Currently, 24 basic substances are approved, of which 21 are also approved in organic production; for example, talc was validated in 2021 following EGTOP PPP VII and is being currently voted on at RCOP [23] and clayed charcoal was submitted. Recently, voted chitosan does not seem to be acceptable directly in organic production as the basic substance from its microorganism’s origin, although in the context of food quality. Basic substances are approved by EU Regulations, so the application month, where reported in Table 1, is related to the Northern Hemisphere.
The scientific literature dealing with basic substances is relatively limited but increasing in recent years (Figure 2), and there is poor information about the effectiveness in field trials of basic substances toward pests and pathogens.
In the last decade, MRLs for pesticides with agricultural trade are becoming important. In the EU, there are increasing requirements from retailers to their suppliers to provide fruits and vegetables with an amount of pesticide residue below the MRLs (Table 5).
The substances tested during Casdar programs ‘4P’, ‘Carie’, ‘Sweet’, ‘HE, Ecophyto ‘Usage’ and some from projects have already been described (Marchand, 2016) (Table 6). New projects are ongoing to develop extensions of use, describe better efficacy through better positioning during the season or to investigate compatibility/incompatibility with other biocontrol agents (i.e., reduce copper and macro-organisms). This is the ongoing work for Coperreplace, ABAPIC (ITAB), Vitinnova (UNIVPM), and Euphresco BasicS (Euphresco Network).

3. Discussion

The use of pesticides, if not appropriate, may lead to problems like contamination of the water, potential damage to sensitive species (e.g., bees), contamination of final food products and water, with up to 90% of applied pesticides not reaching the target species, and, also, because of the development of resistant pathogens and pests [39]. A high number of PPPs were not reauthorized (or companies did not provide the dossier for the reregistration of products out of patent, due to high costs and uncertain benefits) and leaves a gap for several uses. It is important that authorities provide a good number of options to growers to protect their crops, since farmers cannot stand without PPPs for certain crops and uses, and there is an increasing need, because a lot of substance prohibition dates are fixed without substitution mean. Just as an example, this occurred with the fungicide mancozeb in January 2022 and a risk to occur in 2025 with copper, that is fundamental for plant protection in organic agriculture and a good support to prevent the appearing of resistant isolates in IPM. In France, the use of neonicotinoids, known as dangerous insecticides, is extended when there is no other way to preserve crops and productivity. With Farm to Fork Strategy of the European Green Deal, the European Commission is committed to reduce the use of the most dangerous synthetic pesticides of 50% and achieve at least 25% of the EU agricultural land under organic farming by 2030, although the decrease of synthetic pesticides is already ongoing. These trends, together with the implementation of sustainable development goals—SDGs by the United Nations—are demanding for new alternatives, such as basic substances, to tackle some of these issues. To achieve these goals, more research is needed to advance the design of better farming systems and the development of alternatives to synthetic pesticides and to copper formulations.
Three decades ago, the concept of MRLs was poorly known, while, in recent years, MRLs for pesticides arguably have become the first action growers should consider in their pest management decisions [40]. Trying to interpret consumer demands, retailers are increasingly required to reduce pesticide residues even more than the allowed thresholds (MRLs), which are defined considering a wide security factor (e.g., ×100) using the presence of pesticide residues as a factor of competition among companies. Requests from the retailers and consumer to reduce synthetic pesticide residues from fresh produce even more than the allowed threshold, such that the rules defined by the public administration have become more limiting for farmers in terms of the active ingredients allowed and MRLs [40,41]. The reduction of the presence of fungicide residues well beyond MRL may allow the pathogen to develop after harvest, resulting food loss and waste along the value chain. These developments have driven the search for alternative management strategies that are effective and not reliant just on conventional fungicide applications [5,42,43]. European regulation followed and carried this development with the introduction of new classes of phytosanitary products, in particular basic substances, but also new laws and simplification accompanied by the reduction of registration processes of low-risk substances, theoretically. Basic substances are approved for use in the EU and are products that are already sold for certain purposes, e.g., as a foodstuff or a cosmetic. Basic substances may be of major importance in biocontrol and several advantages can explain it. Basic substance regulatory application is simplified [44] and particularly reduced compared to other substances, therefore representing a lower cost to applicant (around 35-40 kEuro for approval of a basic substance and overall around 45 kEuro including approval for organic agriculture), thanks to the fact that these substances are already on the market for another purpose than plant protection, and safety is not an issue to be demonstrated. These substances are good alternatives available today and wide targets. Basic substances can be used in the crop protection as fungicide, bactericide, insecticide, etc., and most of them are allowed in organic production [18,45,46,47]. The basic substances are in order from 2014, when was the first approved application of Equisetum arvense L., chitosan hydrochloride, and sucrose until 2022, when a second chitosan formulation was approved. In some conditions basic substances were already at farm level, with a level of pest management not different than the standard. Just as example, chitosan hydrochloride was also applied in commercial conditions, in the field, and postharvest treatments, and several studies proved that it could have an effectiveness comparable to some commercial PPPs [42,48]. Basic substances, probably less efficient and practical to use than other active substances authorized as PPPs, are known and used by producers since decades as substitution means and have already demonstrated their effectiveness. Basic substances were the perfect tool to provide to producers as known, easy-to-use, less dangerous, and environmentally more respectful. Today, there is a consensus among a wide range of stakeholders that synthetic pesticide used need to be gradually reduced to a level that is effectively required to ensure crop production and that risks of pesticide application should be reduced as far as possible. Basic substances are good alternatives available today in our hands. The use of these substances needs to be integrated in vocational education, training, and technical advice to farmers. Further research around the world on the efficacy of basic substances may prove in the future that these substances can replace pesticides without reducing yields or increasing production costs. To develop the uses and the field trials we listed here the main usages of basic substances. However, rates included in the approval schedule may not produce a significant containment of diseases and pests in specific pathosystems. Just as example, the advised application rate of chitosan hydrochloride is between 100 and 800 g/ha, equal to a concentration ranging among 0.05 and 0.2% with 200–400 L/ha, while trials in commercial vineyards found a good effectiveness delivering the chitosan hydrochloride, with a concentration of at least 0.5% and with a volume of at least 500 L/ha [34,49]. For this reasons, large-scale trials are very important to demonstrate the effectiveness toward pathogens and pests in different environments and growing contexts, and a flexibility could be required in suggested dosages to avoid that applying basic substances at suggested rated can lead to a lack of or poor effectiveness and then the disaffection of users toward these innovative compounds, and this is in contrast with the requirements of finding solutions alternatives to the application of synthetic pesticides keeping the standard quality and quantity of the production, which is one of the drivers of the Farm-to=Fork Strategy of European Green Deal. Moreover, the diluent allowed for basic substance, up to now concretely restricted to water, may be another substance. In this case, vinegar has just been authorized for chitosan. Finally, increasing the demand from growers and competition among companies can lead to the reduction of costs of the treatments that, nowadays, are often higher than standard treatments.

4. Materials and Methods

4.1. Collection of Data

A systematic literature search from 2009 to 2021 was performed using the database of Scopus with the keywords ‘basic substance’ and ‘basic substances’. In the EU, several retailers request an amount of pesticide residue on fruit and vegetables below the legal limit (MRL), and data on some protocols were collected through companies and plant doctors.

4.2. Legislation

Basic substance criteria are defined by article 23 of Regulation (EC) No. 1107/2009, cited in introduction. By way of derogation from Article 4 of this regulation, a basic substance is approved when all relevant evaluations conducted in accordance with other Community legislation, governing other uses of this substance, showing that it has neither an immediate or delayed harmful effect on human or animal health nor any unacceptable influence on the environment. Active substances that could be defined as ‘foodstuff’ are intrinsically considered as basic substances, following Article 2 of Regulation (EC) No. 178/2002. Basic substances shall be approved in accordance with paragraphs 2–6 of regulation (EC) No. 1107/2009 and by way of derogation from Article 5, the approval shall be for an unlimited period. By way of derogation from Article 7 of Regulation (EC) No. 1107/2009, an application for approval of a basic substance can be made by a Member State or any interested party. At the end of the evaluation process, basic substances shall be listed separately in the Regulation referred to in Article 13(4). The Commission may review the approval of an active substance at any time. It may take into account the request of a Member State to review the approval. Article 28 of Regulation (EC) No. 1107/2009 set the absence of marketing authorizations and usages allowance for basic substances. However, no formal authorization is required as long as the product contains exclusively basic substances (see corresponding Review Report) [49,50].

4.3. Approval Process

The approval process of a basic substance starts with a request for approval (Figure 3). The applicant estimates if the substance concerned fulfil all criteria of basic substances category and then complete the BSAT, in English, to obtain a Basic Substance Application. Several guidance documents, such as the official SANCO guide or the teaching guide from the ITAB, have been published to help applicants to build basic substance application correctly [50]. For the transmission of the basic substance application, once completed, the file should be sent to the DGSanté, representing the European Commission (EC). The Basic Substance Application can firstly be sent to national competent authorities for a preassessment and possibly a support. For example, in France, the Basic Substance Application can be sent to the Ministry of Agriculture (DGAl in France), who can ask for the National Authority’ opinion and then transfer the file to the EC. Upon receipt of the Basic Substance Application, EC implements the approval procedure detailed in Article 23 of Regulation (EC) No. 1107/2009. Admissibility may be pronounced at any time, directly or after questions from DGSanté. It constitutes the real start of the application (black line in Figure 3). The first stage is based on the Basic Substance Application evaluation by Member States and EFSA as scientific assistance leading to a request for corrections and questions. The request is sent to the applicant, and his answers shall be sent back within one month to the EFSA. For decision and approval, at the end of the basic substance application evaluation, EFSA will deliver its opinion, append a comment, and send the basic substance application to the DG Health within 3 months for the final vote of Member States in the PAFF committee (Figure 3). Approval, if accorded, is effective at the date of the publication of an implementing Regulation modifying Regulation (EU) No. 540/2011 [8].
The period of examination of the basic substance application is established in paragraph 1 of article 37 of Regulation (EC) No. 1107/2009. It is said: ‘The Member State examining the application shall decide within 12 months of receiving it whether the requirements for authorization are met. Where the Member State needs additional information, it shall set a period for the applicant to supply it. In that case, the 12-month period shall be extended by the additional period granted by the Member State. That additional period shall be a maximum of 6 months and shall cease at the moment when the additional information is received by the Member State. Where at the end of that period the applicant has not submitted the missing elements, the Member State shall inform the applicant that the application is inadmissible.’ [10]. The maximum delay is therefore set at 18 months. However, although clearly defined, these steps are not so straightforward in many cases [51].

4.4. Extension of Uses Process

The request for an extension is somehow similar, except the need of support from corresponding agricultural sectors at the deposit step. Some extensions were voted after submission, some others were granted with admissibility and voted rapidly after; some later were following the full approval pathway, including admissibility, evaluation, outcome, full vote at PAFF Committee (appearance in Part A (lecture, discussion), C (proposal) and B (effective vote)). This latter process sometimes takes the same amount of time compared to a new approval, which is considered very excessive by the applicants, having an approved substance at the beginning of their request and only asking for one line sometimes in the Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) table.

4.5. Regulation Analysis

The EU Pesticides Database [52] was used to detect basic substances and their status (approved, nonapproved, pending, and modifications of Review Reports). Corresponding linked Implementing Regulations [20] attached to each active substance were found using the same method and cross-verified with Implementing Regulation (EU) 540/2011. The EU law database for Eur-Lex was also used to track each Implementing Regulation publication. Furthermore, EFSA documents were also compiled to extract decisions supportive analyses.

5. Conclusions

Searching for alternative products for crop protection is an important strategy for promoting more sustainable food systems. The use of basic substances is in line with the restriction on the application of chemical PPPs and the principles of the European Green Deal and SDGs, mostly renewables and with no MRL. There is relatively poor information about the effectiveness of basic substances as compared to synthetic pesticides and biological PPPs. A higher testing and validation of the use of basic substances as a phytosanitary measure can lead to further reduction of application of synthetic pesticides. In addition, searching for the most effective dosage of the basic substance is critical and an important question for phytosanitary consultants (the plant doctors that are opinion leaders in application of innovations in pest management), growers, stakeholder, and companies to avoid that their application at the recommended dose can lead to a lack of or poor effectiveness of these substances. For this reason, a flexibility might be required in the suggested dosage of basic substances approved to ensure good maintenance of the quality and quantity of production, which is one of the keys of the Farm to Fork Strategy of the European Green Deal. Moreover, a defined timeline for approval is basilar to have the chance to increase the number of basic substances available for growers, the scientific community, and the whole agricultural sector, with final benefits for the consumers.

6. Patents

All Implementing Regulations may be considered as patents but with free exploitation, since no Marketing Authorizations are needed for basic substances.

Supplementary Materials

The following supporting information can be downloaded at: https://0-www-mdpi-com.brum.beds.ac.uk/article/10.3390/molecules27113484/s1, Figure S1: Time needed for Basic Substance Application admissibility evaluation over time (bars) and tendency line (dotted line); Table S1: Total time of basic substance application process within admissibility to Implementing Regulation publication in months.

Author Contributions

Conceptualization, G.R. and P.A.M.; methodology, Y.O. and M.M.; resources, G.R., Y.O., Y.D., M.M. and P.A.M.; writing—original draft preparation, G.R., Y.O., Y.D., M.M. and P.A.M.; writing—review and editing, G.R., Y.D., M.M. and P.A.M.; supervision, G.R. and P.A.M.; and funding acquisition, G.R. and P.A.M. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.

Funding

For G.R. and M.M., this work was conducted within the framework of the PSR ZeroSprechi, PSR Vitinnova, PSR CleanSeed, and of PRIMA StopMedWaste projects, which are funded by PRIMA, a program supported by the European Union. For Authors Y.O., Y.D., and P.A.M., the French Ministry of Agriculture (CASDAR ‘4P’, ‘Contrat de branche Carie’, ‘Sweet’, and ‘HE’; Ecophyto ‘Usage’, ’Biocontrol’ ’INADOM’, and ’PARMA’), French Ministry of Ecology (Project ‘PNPP‘ CT0007807, ‘SubDOMEx‘, and ‘Jussie‘). All authors worked within the “Euphresco BasicS (Objective 2020-C-353) project. Thanks are expressed to Antonello Lepore, Gianni Ceredi and other technicians for providing data about pesticide residues requested by retailers.

Institutional Review Board Statement

Not applicable.

Informed Consent Statement

Not applicable.

Data Availability Statement

Data is contained within the article or supplementary material.

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

References

  1. United Nation. Growing at a Slower Pace, World Population Is Expected to Reach 9.7 billion in 2050 and Could Peak at Nearly 11 billion around 2100. 2019. Available online: https://www.un.org/development/desa/en/news/population/world-population-prospects-2019.html (accessed on 10 December 2021).
  2. FAO. 2021. Available online: https://www.fao.org/news/story/en/item/1402920/icode/ (accessed on 1 December 2021).
  3. Savary, S.; Willocquet, L.; Pethybridge, S.J.; Esker, P.; McRoberts, N.; Nelson, A. The global burden of pathogens and pests on major food crops. Nat. Ecol. Evol. 2019, 3, 430–439. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  4. Dietz-Pfeilstetter, A.; Mendelsohn, M.; Gathmann, A.; Klinkenbuß, D. Considerations and regulatory approaches in the USA and in the EU for dsRNA-based externally applied pesticides for plant protection. Front. Plant Sci. 2021, 12, 682387. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  5. Romanazzi, G.; Smilanick, J.L.; Feliziani, E.; Droby, S. Integrated management of postharvest gray mold on fruit crops. Postharvest Biol. Technol. 2016, 113, 69–76. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  6. Chèze, B.; David, M.; Martinet, V. Understanding farmers’ reluctance to reduce pesticide use: A choice experiment. Ecol. Econ. 2020, 167, 106349. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  7. Robin, D.; Marchand, P.A. Evolution of Directive (EC) No 128/2009 of the European parliament and of the council establishing a framework for Community action to achieve the sustainable use of pesticides. JRS 2019, 7, 1–7. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  8. EU. Commission Implementing Regulation No 540/2011 of 25 May 2011 implementing Regulation (EC) No 1107/2009 of the European parliament and of the council as regards the list of approved active substances. OJ 2011, L153, 1–186. [Google Scholar]
  9. Matyjaszczyk, E. Problems of implementing compulsory integrated pest management. Pest Manag. Sci. 2019, 75, 2063–2067. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  10. Robin, D.; Marchand, P.A. Biocontrol active substances: Evolution since the entry in vigour of Reg. 1107/2009. Pest Manag. Sci. 2019, 75, 950–959. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  11. EC. Commission Regulation No 1107/2009 of the European parliament and of the council of 21 October 2009 concerning the placing of plant protection products on the market and repealing council directives 79/117/EEC and 91/414/EEC. OJ 2009, L309, 1–50. [Google Scholar]
  12. Kowalska, J.; Roszkowski, S.; Krzymińska, J. Substancje podstawowe—Efektywne uzupełnienie metod ochrony upraw. Basic substances—An effective supplement to crop protection methods. Prog. Plant Prot. 2021, 61, 139–146. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  13. Marchand, P.A. Basic and low-risk substances under European Union pesticide regulations: A new choice for biorational portfolios of small and medium-sized enterprises. J. Plant Prot. Res. 2017, 57, 433–440. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  14. Charon, M.; Robin, D.; Marchand, P.A. The importance of substances without maximum residue limit (MRL) in integrated pest management (IPM). Biotechnol. Agron. Soc. Environ. 2019, 23, 22–29. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  15. EC. Regulation No 178/2002 of the European parliament and of the council of 28 January 2002 laying down the general principles and requirements of food law, establishing the European Food Safety Authority and laying down procedures in matters of food safety. OJ 2002, L31, 1–24. [Google Scholar]
  16. Euphresco. BasicS Project. 2021. Available online: https://www.researchgate.net/project/EUPHRESCO-Basic-substances-as-an-environmentally-friendly-alternative-to-synthetic-pesticides-for-plant-protection-BasicS (accessed on 1 December 2021).
  17. Marchand, P.A.; Davillerd, Y.; Riccioni, L.; Sanzani, S.M.; Horn, N.; Matyjaszczyk, E.; Golding, J.; Roberto, S.R.; Mattiuz, B.-H.; Xu, D.; et al. BasicS, an euphresco international network on renewable natural substances for durable crop protection products. Chron. Bioresour. Manag. 2021, 5, 77–80. [Google Scholar]
  18. Romanazzi, G.; Feliziani, E.; Sivakumar, D. Chitosan, a biopolymer with triple action on postharvest decay of fruit and vegetables: Eliciting, antimicrobial and film-forming properties. Front. Microbiol. 2018, 9, 2745. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  19. European Commission. Working Document on the Procedure for Application of Basic Substances to be Approved in Compliance with Article 23 of Regulation (EC) No 1107/2009; SANCO/10363/2012 rev. 10; European Commission: Brussels, Belgium, 25 January 2021. [Google Scholar]
  20. EU. EU Pesticides Database (v.2.2) Search Active Substances, Safeners and Synergists (europa.eu). 2021. Available online: https://ec.europa.eu/food/plant/pesticides/eu-pesticides-database/active-substances/?event=search.as (accessed on 23 May 2022).
  21. Matyjaszczyk, E. Plant protection means used in organic farming throughout the European Union. Pest Manag. Sci. 2018, 74, 505–510. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  22. Marchand, P.A. Basic substances under EU pesticide regulation: An opportunity for organic production? Org. Farming 2017, 3, 16–19. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [Green Version]
  23. EU. Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) amending and correcting Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/1165 authorising certain products and substances for use in organic production and establishing their lists. Official J. Eur. Union 2022, in press. [Google Scholar]
  24. Marchand, P.A.; Isambert, C.A.; Jonis, M.; Parveaud, C.-E.; Chevolon, M.; Gomez, C.; Lambion, J.; Ondet, S.J.; Aveline, N.; Molot, B.; et al. Evaluation des caractéristiques et de l’intérêt agronomique de préparations simples de plantes, pour des productions fruitières, légumières et viticoles économes en intrants. Innov. Agron. 2014, 34, 83–96. [Google Scholar]
  25. CASDAR 4P, Protéger les Plantes Par les Plantes. 2014. Available online: https://ecophytopic.fr/recherche-innovation/proteger/projet-4p (accessed on 23 May 2022).
  26. COPPEREPLACE. 2015. Available online: https://coppereplace.com/fr/project-coppereplace/ (accessed on 23 May 2022).
  27. Robin, N.; Bruyere, J. Traitements de semences: Contrôler la carie. In Actes Journée Technique; ITAB: Paris, France, 2012; pp. 31–40. Available online: http://www.itab.asso.fr/downloads/actes%20suite/carie-actes2012.pdf (accessed on 23 May 2022).
  28. Arnault, I.; Bardin, M.; Ondet, S.; Furet, A.; Chovelon, M.; Kasprick, A.-C.; Marchand, P.; Clerc, H.; Davy, M.; Roy, G.; et al. Utilisation de micro-doses de sucres en protection des cultures. Innov. Agron. 2015, 46, 1–10. [Google Scholar]
  29. Arnault, I.; Aveline, N.; Bardin, M.; Brisset, M.N.; Carriere, J.; Chovelon, M.; Delanoue, G.; Furet, A.; Frérot, B.; Lambion, J.; et al. Optimisation des stratégies de biocontrôle par la stimulation de l’immunité des plantes avec des applications d’infra-doses de sucres simples. Innov. Agron. 2021, 82, 411–423. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  30. Vidal, R.; Muchembled, J.; Deweer, C.; Tournant, L.; Corroyer, N.; Flammier, S. Évaluation de l’intérêt de l’utilisation d’huiles essentielles dans des stratégies de protection des cultures. Innov. Agron. 2018, 63, 1–20. [Google Scholar]
  31. Compo Expert. Report 2015. In LA PUGERE, 2011 Pear Psylla [Psylla piri], The TALC Efficiency Evaluation in a Preventive Control Strategy of the Pear Psylla Year; Station d’experimentation La Pugere: Mallemort, France, 2015; pp. 1–68. [Google Scholar]
  32. CA (Chambre d’Agriculture de l’Aude). Réduction des coûts en viticulture. Produits Alternatifs: Lactosérum [Reducing Costs in Viticulture: Alternative Crop Protection: Lactoserum]; Technical Report; Chambre d’Agriculture de l’Aude (CA11): Carcas-sonne, France, 2011; 123p. [Google Scholar]
  33. Duriez, J.M. Le phosphate di-ammonium, un attractant de la mouche de l’olive Journées Techniques Intrants; ITAB: Paris, France, 2016; Available online: http://www.itab.asso.fr/downloads/jt-intrants-2016/10_duriez-afidol-pda.pdf (accessed on 23 May 2022).
  34. Montag, J.; Schreiber, L.; Schönherr, J. The post-infection activity of hydrated lime against conidia of Venturia inaequalis. In Proceedings of the Ecofruit-12th International Conference on Cultivation Technique and Phytopathological Problems in Organic Fruit-Growing, Weinsberg, Germany, 31 January–2 February 2006. [Google Scholar]
  35. Romanazzi, G.; Piancatelli, S.; D’Ignazi, G.; Moumni, M. Innovative approaches to grapevine downy mildew management on large and commercial scale. In Proceedings of the 9th International Workshop on Grapevine Downy and Powdery Mildew, Cremona, Italy, 20–22 July 2022. [Google Scholar]
  36. Romanazzi, G.; Moumni, M. New challenges in preventing and managing fresh fruit loss and waste. In Proceedings of the VI International Symposium on Postharvest Pathology, Limassol, Cyprus, 29 May–2 June 2022. [Google Scholar]
  37. D’Ortenzio, A.L.; Fava, G.; Mazzoni, S.; Acciarri, P.; Baronciani, L.; Ceredi, G.; Romanazzi, G. Postharvest application of natural compounds and biocontrol agents to manage brown rot of stone fruit. In Proceedings of the VI International Symposium on Postharvest Pathology, Limassol, Cyprus, 29 May–2 June 2022. [Google Scholar]
  38. Piancatelli, S.; Moumni, M.; Binni, T.; Giardini, D.; Profili, R.; Napoleoni, D.; Morbidelli, M.; Fabbri, G.; Piersanti, G.; Nardi, S.; et al. Impiego di sostanze di origine naturale e a basso impatto ambientale nella protezione del cavolo cappuccio da seme. Giornate Fitopatol. 2022; in press. [Google Scholar]
  39. Park, D.W.; Yang, Y.S.; Lee, Y.U.; Han, S.J.; Kim, H.J.; Kim, S.H.; Kim, J.P.; Cho, S.J.; Lee, D.; Song, N.; et al. Pesticide residues and risk assessment from monitoring programs in the largest production area of leafy vegetables in South Korea: A 15-year study. Foods 2021, 10, 425. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  40. El-Nahhal, I.; El-Nahhal, Y. Pesticide residues in drinking water, their potential risk to human health and removal options. J. Environ. Manag. 2021, 299, 113611. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  41. Hejazi, M.; Grant, J.H.; Peterson, E. Trade impact of maximum residue limits in fresh fruits and vegetables. Food Policy 2022, 106, 102203. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  42. Romanazzi, G.; Feliziani, E.; Baños, S.B.; Sivakumar, D. Shelf life extension of fresh fruit and vegetables by chitosan treatment. Crit. Rev. Food Sci. Nutr. 2017, 57, 579–601. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  43. Romanazzi, G.; Sanzani, S.M.; Bi, Y.; Tian, S.; Gutierrez-Martinez, P.; Alkan, N. Induced resistance to control postharvest decay of fruit and vegetables. Postharvest Biol. Technol. 2016, 122, 82–94. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  44. Robin, D.; Marchand, P.A. Expansion of the low-risk substances in the framework of the European Pesticide Regulation (EC) No. 1107/2009. Eur. J. Risk Regul. 2022, 1–20. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  45. Marchand, P.A. Basic substances: An opportunity for approval of low-concern substances under EU pesticide regulation. Pest Manag. Sci. 2015, 71, 1197–1200. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  46. Marchand, P.A. Basic substances under EC 1107/2009 phytochemical regulation: Experience with non-biocide and food products as biorationals. J. Plant Prot. Res. 2016, 56, 312–318. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  47. Lykogianni, M.; Bempelou, E.; Karamaouna, F.; Aliferis, K.A. Do pesticides promote or hinder sustainability in agriculture? The challenge of sustainable use of pesticides in modern agriculture. Sci. Total Environ. 2021, 795, 148625. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  48. Romanazzi, G.; Mancini, V.; Foglia, R.; Marcolini, D.; Kavari, M.; Piancatelli, S. Use of chitosan and other natural compounds alone or in different strategies with copper hydroxide for control of grapevine downy mildew. Plant Dis. 2021, 105, 3261–3268. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  49. EU. Working Document on the Procedure for Application of Basic Substances to be Approved in Compliance with Article 23 of Regulation (EC) No. 1107/2009 SANCO/10363/2012; (rev. 9 of 21 March 2014); EU: Brussels, Belgium, 2012. [Google Scholar]
  50. EU. Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2022/456 of 21 March 2022 approving the basic substance chitosan in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1107/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council concerning the placing of plant protection products on the market, and amending the Annex to Implementing Regulation (EU) No 540/2011. OJ 2022, L93, 138–141. [Google Scholar]
  51. Marchand, P.A.; Carrière, J. Guide Pédagogique: Constituer un dossier d’approbation de substance naturelle au règlement (CE) n°1107/2009; ITAB: Paris, France, 2012. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  52. Vekemans, M.C.; Marchand, P.A. The fate of the Biocontrol agents under the European phytopharmaceutical regulation: A hindering for approval botanicals as new active substances? Environ. Sci. Pollut. Res. 2020, 27, 39879–39887. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
Figure 1. Total of the basic substance applications (BSA) and extensions presented by the results (%).
Figure 1. Total of the basic substance applications (BSA) and extensions presented by the results (%).
Molecules 27 03484 g001
Figure 2. Number of documents available on Scopus through searches with keywords ‘basic substances’ in ‘Article title, Abstract, and Keywords’ (histograms) or in ‘All fields’ (linear) published over the last 10 years (Source: Scopus, https://www.scopus.com, accessed on 11 May 2022).
Figure 2. Number of documents available on Scopus through searches with keywords ‘basic substances’ in ‘Article title, Abstract, and Keywords’ (histograms) or in ‘All fields’ (linear) published over the last 10 years (Source: Scopus, https://www.scopus.com, accessed on 11 May 2022).
Molecules 27 03484 g002
Figure 3. Approval process and timeline of a Basic Substance Application (BSA).
Figure 3. Approval process and timeline of a Basic Substance Application (BSA).
Molecules 27 03484 g003
Table 1. Application of the basic substances approved.
Table 1. Application of the basic substances approved.
Basic SubstanceApproval Regulation and ApplicantCrops and/or SituationFunction in Plant ProtectionPests or
Group of
Pests
Target
ApplicationApplication RatesNotes
MethodGrowth Stage & SeasonNo. Min/MaxIBA 1 (Days)Min–MaxWater L/ha Min–MaxTotal RatePHI 1
Equisetum arvense L.Reg. (EU) No 462/
2014
ITAB
Fruit trees Apple fruit (Malus pumila, Malus domestica) Peach-tree (Prunus persica)FungicideFoliar fungi like
scab disease
(Venturia inaequalis),
Powdery mildews
(Podosphaera
leucotricha)
Peach leaf curl
(Taphrina deformans)
Foliar
application spraying
From green leaf tip (BBCH 53) to flowers fading (BBCH 67) Spring2–67200 g/hL500–10001000–2000 g/haNa 1Plant homogenate extracted with hot water and filtered to be used 24 h after preparation
Grapevine (Vitis vinifera)Downy mildew (Plasmopara viticola),
Powdery mildew
(Erysiphe necator)
From 1st shoots (BBCH 10) to cluster tightening (BBCH 57) Spring to summer100–300200–600 g/haNa
Cucumber (Cucumis sativus) rootsPowdery mildew (Podosphaera fusca)
Root fungi
like common root rot, seedling blight (Pythium spp.)
Root feeding application and foliar application sprayingFrom (9th leaf unfolded on main stem—BBCH 19) to 9 or more primary side shoots visible (BBCH 49)23–4300600 g/ha15
Tomato (Lycopersicum esculentum)Early blight
(Alternaria solani),
Septoria blight
(Septoria lycopsersici)
Foliar application sprayingFirst inflorescence visible (BBCH 51) to BBCH 59 summer14
Strawberry (Fragaria × Ananassa) Raspberry (Rubus idaeus)Gray mold
(Botrytis cinerea),
Powdery mildew
(Podosphaera aphanis), red core
(Phytophthora fragariae), other fungi like
Colletotrichum acutatum
Foliar application spraying 2Growth restart till end of fructification. Early spring till end of summer Stage BBCH 1 to BBCH 894–85–14225 g/hL300675 g/haNa
Potato (Solanum tuberosum)Late blight
(Phytophthora infestans), early blight
(Alternaria solani),
powdery mildew
(Erysiphe cichoracearum)
Stage BBCH 1 until BBCH 9
Ornamental
trees use
of which
Prunus spp.
Roses
Rosa spp.
Ornamental
fungal
diseases,
rose black
spot
(Marsonia spp.),
Rose rust
(Phragmidium
mucronatum),
leaf curl diseases, monilioses, oidium and mildew
Included in mulchNot relevant1NaNaNa9000 g/haDry plant aerial
parts usage never
applied on whole hectare
Chitosan hydrochlorideReg. (EU) 2021/1446
ChiPro
Fruits berries and small fruitElicitor, having a fungicide and bactericide effect via the stimulation of natural defence mechanismsPlant elicitor, plant resistance against pathogenic fungi
and bacteria
Low–Medium volume sprayingFrom 1 leaf development (main shoot) to 7 development of fruit4–81450–200 g/hL200–400100–800 g/ha0
Vegetables50–100 g/hL100–400 g/ha
Cereals
Spices
Crops for
animal feed
Cereals
Seed
treatment
Low volume
spraying
Before sowing1NaNaNa
Potatoes
Seed
treatment
Low volume
spraying/dipping
NaNa
Sugar beet
Seed
treatment
50–200 g/hLNaNa
Ornamental
bulbous
plants
Bulb treatment–
Dipping/drenching
Germination
(BBCH 00–01)
50–100 g/hL200–800100–800 g/ha
Low–Medium
volume spraying
Leaf development–
senescence
(BBCH 10–92)
1–85–750–200 g/hL200–400
Low–Medium
volume spraying
Leaf development –senescence
(BBCH 10–92)
Beet crops
SucroseReg. (EU) No 916/2014
ITAB
IRBI
Apple trees/
orchards
(Malus pumila,
Malus
domestica)
Elicitor, having an insecticidal and fungicidal effect via the
stimulation of natural defence mechanisms
Fruits borer like
Codling moth
(Cydia pomonella) 3
Foliar
application
spraying
early in
the morning
before 9 AM
(Solar time)
From spring BBCH stage 6 to summer
BBCH stage 89
7–101510 g/hL600–100060–100 g/haNaCold water solution
prepared just before application
Sweet Maize
(Sweet corn)
(Zea mays L.
convar. saccharata
Koern)
Corn borer
(Ostrinia nubilalis
Hbn.) 3
From the BBCH
stage 12 to 89
3–420020 g/ha
Maize
(corn grain)
(Zea mays
subsp. mays (L.))
and corn seed
Corn borer
(Ostrinia nubilalis
Hbn.) 3
From the BBCH
stage 12 to 51
3–4
Grapevine
(Vitis vinifera)
Vine leafhopper
(Scaphoideus
titanus) 3
From the BBCH
stage 17 to 57
3715015 g/ha
Grapevine
(Vitis vinifera)
Downy mildew
(Plasmopara viticola) 3
From 1st shoots to
cluster tightening
spring (BBCH 10–57)
up to 2100–20010–20 g/ha
Calcium hydroxideReg. (EU) 2015/762
IFOAM
Pome fruitFungicideNeonectria
galligena
Sprinkler applicationLeaf drops end of October till end of December2–75–14104–208 L/ha 4 1460 L/ha 55000–10,000 L/ha25–50 kg/ha
350 kg/ha 3
Na
Pome fruit and stone fruitNeonectria
galligena
and other
diseases
Spray applicationWith products at 24% 63–104 L/ha 4 728 L/ha 5 with products at 33.12% 45–76 L/ha 4 532 L/h5500–1000 L/ha15–25 kg/ha 4
175 kg/ha 5
Brush application directly on pruning wounds and old cancers on stems 6Winter to March1–221With products at 24% 450 L/ha 3 900 L/ha 4 with products at 33.12%
450 L/ha 4 900 L/ha 5
No extra water 6149.04 kg 4 299.08 kg 5
VinegarReg. (EU) No 540/2011
Reg. (EU) 2015/1108
Reg. (EU) 2019/149
ITAB
Wheat seeds
(Triticum vulgare),
common wheat
(Triticum aestivum),
durum wheat
(Triticum durum),
spelt
(Triticum spelta)
Fungicide, bactericide and herbicideCommon bunt
(Tilletia caries,
Tilletia foetida)
Seed
treatment
just before
seeding
Autumn1Na25–50 7 per 100 kg of seedNot
applicable
24–100 7,8Na
Barley seeds
(Hordeum vulgare)
Barley leaf stripe
(Pyrenophora
graminea)
Market vegetables
Gardening like carrot
(Daucus carota),
tomato
(Solanum lycopersicum),
bell pepper
(Capsicum spp.)
Alternaria spp.Autumn to
spring
Seeds are
tem-porary
soaked in
the dilution
then removed
Seeds are
temporary
soaked in
the preparation
then
removed
Market
vegetables
gardening
like tomato
(Solanum
Lycopersicum),
bell pepper
(Capsicum spp.),
cabbage
(Brassica oleracea)
Clavibacter
michiganensis,
Clavibacter
michiganensis
subsp.
michiganensis,
Pseudomonas
syringae
pv. tomato,
Xanthomonas campestris pv.
vesicatoria,
Botrytis aclada
1Na
White and red chestnut
(Aesculus L.),
Sycamore spp. (option), Acer spp.
Bacteria:
Pseudomonas
syringae pv.
aesculi
Tools application before sawing or cutting 9Na1 per day to each
time before
use
1400 g/hLNaNa Waiting period 30 s after washing
Hawthorns (Rosaceae):
Crataegus spp., Amelanchir,
Aronia, Chaenomeles,
Cotoneaster, Cydonia,
Malus, Photinia, Potentilla,
Prunus, Pyracantha,
Pyrus, Rosa, Sorbus and
Spiraea
Fire blight
(Erwinia
amylovora)
NaNaNaNa
Many ornamental plants
including
Acer, Cotoneaster,
Euonymus, Forsythia,
Magnolia, Philadelphus,
Populus, Prunus, Pyrus,
Rosa, Rubus, Syringa and
Vaccinium
Bacterial blight
/canker (Pseudomonas syringae pv.
syringae)
NaNaNaNa
Plane sp., Platanus, Prunus
sp., Chestnut sp., Aesculus L.,
Sophora spp.,
Linden sp., Tilia
Rot fungi,
especially
phellins:
Phellinus,
Tinder polypore
and ruffled
(Fomes
fomentarius)
Na NaNaNa
Elm (elm other than Lutèce)
(Ulmus spp.)
Vascular fungi:
Ophiostoma spp.
NaNaNaNaNa
Maple sp., Acer sp.Wilt diseaseNaNaNaNaNa
Ailanthe sp., Ailanthus
altissima
Verticillium spp.NaNaNaNaNaNaNa
Maple sp., Acer sp.;
Sycamore, Acer spp.;
Chestnut sp., Aesculus L.;
Beech sp., Fagus spp.
Sooty-Bark
disease
(Cryptostroma
corticale)
NaNaNaNaNaNaNa
ITAB/ITEIPMAIMedicinal
aromatic
and perfume
crops
WeedsSpray 10Pre crop
emergence
1Na10 kg/hL100 L vinegar (no
dilution)
10 kg/ha>120Phytotoxic to plant, may kill the young plants 11
Charbonneaux-Brabantpaths, borders,
sidewalks and
terraces
WeedsDirect spray
(spot
application)
Vegetation
Period of the
weeds
1–27–216 kg/hL100 L (diluted
vinegar)
6–12 kg/haNaTemp > 20 °C phytotoxic to plant, may kill the young plants 12
Salix spp. cortexReg. (EU) 2015/1107
ITAB
Fruit trees,
Peach tree
(Prunus persica)
FungicideFoliar fungi like
Taphrina deformans
Foliar
application
spraying
From 1st
shoots
(BBCH 10)
to cluster
tightening
(BBCH 57)
spring
2–67222.2 g/hL500–1000 L/ha1111.1–2222.2 g/haNaPlant homogenate extracted with hot water (infusion), filtered and diluted by 3, to be used up to a maximum of 24 h after preparation. The product cannot be applied in case of hot temperature.
It is used in case of rainy period
Apple fruit
(Malus pumila,
Malus
domestica)
Foliar fungi like
scab disease
(Venturia inaequalis),
powdery mildew
(Podosphaera leucotricha)
From green
leaf tip (BBCH 53)
to flowers
fading
(BBCH 67)
spring
Grapevine
(Vitis vinifera)
Downy mildew (Plasmopara viticola),
Powdery mildew
(Erysiphe necator)
From 1st
shoots
(BBCH 10) to
cluster
tightening
(BBCH 57)
spring to
summer
100–300222.2–666.6 g/ha
LecithinsReg. (EU) No 540/2011
Reg. (EU) 2015/1116
ITAB
DAE
Fruit trees
Apple fruit
(Malus pumila)
Peach tree
(Prunus persica)
FungicidePowdery mildew
(Podosphaera leucotricha)
Peach leaf curl
(Taphrina deformans)
Spray
application
BBCH 03
to
BBCH 79
3–12575 g/hL500–1000375–750 g/ha5
Gooseberry
Ribes uva-crispa
Powdery mildew
(Microsphaera grossulariae)
BBCH 10
to
BBCH 85
2–4200 g/hL1000–
2000 g/ha
Market vegetables
gardening like
cucumber
(Cucumis sativus)
Powdery mildew
(Podosphaera fusca)
BBCH 10
to
BBCH 89
2–6150 g/hL1000–
1500
1500–
2250 g/ha
Lettuce
(Lactuca sativa)
Erysiphe cichoracearum27
Mash(Valerianella locusta)Erysiphe polyphaga1Na
Tomato
(Lycopersicum
esculentum)
Tomato late blight
(Phytophthora infestans)
2 to 67
Endive
(Cichorium endivia L.)
Alternaria cichorii
Ornamentals,
especially roses
Powdery mildew
and other fungal
diseases
3–12575 g/hL100–30075–225 g/ha
Grapevine
(Vitis vinifera)
Downy mildew (Plasmopara viticola),
Powdery mildew
(Erysiphe necator)
BBCH 11
to
BBCH 85
30
Strawberry (Fragaria × Ananassa) Raspberry (Rubus idaeus)Powdery mildew
and other fungal diseases, i.e.,
Podosphaera aphanis,
Red core (Phytophthora fragariae)
Growth restart till
end of fructification
Early spring till end of
Summer
Stage BBCH 10 to BBCH 89 (2nd crop,
other strawberries
have reached them
specific color)
200 g/hL300–500600–1000 g/haNa
Potato (Solanum tuberosum)Late blight
(Phytophthora infestans)
Stage BBCH 10
until BBCH 90
3–12100–400200–800 g/ha
Carrot
(Daucus carota subsp.
sativus)
Powdery mildew
(Leveillula taurica)
BBCH 19 to
BBCH 90
41410002000 g/ha
FructoseReg. (EU) 2015/1392
ITAB
IRBI
Apple fruit (Malus pumila, Malus domestica)Elicitor, having an insecticidal and fungicidal effect via the
stimulation of natural defence mechanisms
Fruits borer
like
Codling
Moth (Cydia
pomonella) 13
Foliar application spraying early in the morning before 9 AM (solar time)From spring BBCH stage 6 to summer BBCH stage 655–72110 g/hL600–100060–100 g/haNaCold water solution prepared just before application
Maize (Corn
grain) (Zea
mays subsp.
mays L.)
Sweet Maize
(Sweet corn)
(Zea mays L.
convar.
saccharata
Koern)
Symphylans
(Scutigerella
immaculata) 13
Treatment in
seedling line
before 9 AM (solar time)
-1Na4040 g/ha
Zea mays
subsp. mays
L.
Foliar
application
Spraying
early in the morning before 9 AM (solar time)
1 application
at 2–3 leaves
(BBCH 12–13) + 1
application at 4 leaves
(BBCH 14)
21–2828.2 g/ha
Grapevine
(Vitis vinifera)
Vine leafhopper
(Scaphoideus
titanus) 4
Foliar application spraying early in the morning before 9 AM (solar time)From the BBCH stage 17 to 573315015 g/ha
Grapevine
(Vitis vinifera)
Downy mildew (Plasmopara viticola) 4From 1st shoots to cluster tightening Spring (BBCH 10–57)up to 12>12100–20010–20 g/ha
Sodium hydrogen carbonateReg. (EU) 2015/2069
Reg. (EU) 2015/2069
Danish Environmental
Protection Agency
Vegetables
Soft fruit
Ornamentals
Fungicide and herbicideMildews
(Sphaerotheca
spp., Oidium
spp.)
Broad cast
using field
spray or greenhouse
spray
BBCH 12
to 89
1–810333–1000 g/hL300–6002000–5000 g/ha or
0.33–1.0%
Max 1%
Dose adjusted
depending on
water volume
1Different crops have different sensitivity.
Check concentrations
for phytotoxic effects before widely used
Grapevine
(Vitis vinifera)
Powdery mildew
(Erysiphe necator)
Broadcast
using air blast orchard sprayer
BBCH 12 to 891–8420–2000 g/hL200–6002500–5000 g/ha or
0.42–2.0%
Volumes and doses will vary according to crop canopy
size. Conc. higher than 1–2% can be phytotoxic
AppleApple scab
(Venturia inaequalis)
Broadcast
using air
blast
orchard
sprayer
BBCH 10 to 851–8500–1000 g/hL500–10002500–5000 g/ha or
0.5–1.0%
Fruit of
different
types
(oranges, cherries,
apples,
papaya)
Storage
diseases like
Blue mold
(Penicillium
italicum)
Green mold
(Penicillium
digitatum)
Dipping or
surface
treatment
Harvested
fruit
1–21000–4000 g
in 100 L water
1–4%Dose rates between 1–4% has been tested
Potted plants Liverwort/
Bryophyte
(thallose,
Lunularia
cruciata)
Green thallus
of liverwort
plus, fruiting
bodies
Direct
application
of powder
Post
emergence
late summer
or winter
1NaNaNa122 kg/haNaThe product is used for post emergence application.
Phytotoxicity of this use was not tested, check on small number of plants before it is widely used
WheyReg. (EU) 2016/560
ITAB
Cucumber
(Cucumis
sativus),
zucchini
squash
(Cucurbita
pepo)
Fungicide and virucidePodosphaera
fusca,
Podosphaera
xanthii,
Golovinomyces
cichoracearum,
Erysiphe orontii,
Sphaerotheca
fuliginea,
Leveillula
cucurbitacearum
Foliar
spray 12
From three
weeks after
sowing
(9th leaf
unfolded
on
main stem)
to 9 or
more
primary
side shoots
visible
(BBCH 19–49) 14
3–570.6–3 L (0.036
–0.24 kg/hL)
1000–15006–30 L (0.36–
2.4 kg/ha)
NaWhey should be used
rapidly after collection,
not stored in metal
vessel
Grapevine
(Vitis vinifera)
Powdery mildew(Erysiphe necator)From 1st
shoots to
cluster
tightening
Spring 15
7–106–30 L
(0.36–2.4 kg/hL)
100–30,0 156–30 L
(0.36–
2.4 kg/ha)
Vegetable
Gardening,
Tomato
(Lycopersicum
esculentum)
Tomato
(Sinaloa) yellow
leaf curl virus
Begomovirus
First
inflorescence
visible
Summer
(BBCH 10–51) 15
3–40.6–3 L (0.036
–0.24 kg/hL)
1000–
1500
Glove
fingertips
and
mechanical
cutting tools
All crops
Viruses
(Mechanically
transferable) e.g.,
Tobacco mosaic
virus
(TMV),
Tomato
mosaic virus
(ToMV),
Pepper
mild mottle virus
(PMMV),
Cucumber green mottle
mosaic virus
(CGMMV),
Tomato brown
rugose fruit
virus
(ToBRFV)
DippingOn tools
and glove
fingertips
Before/after every
plant
contact 16
NaNaNaNa Dipping for 5 s for gloves and 5 min for mechanical cutting tools. For reasons of efficacy use whey protein powder with at least 80% protein content.
Replace the whey
solution regularly (e.g., after each crop row) to prevent cross contamination of the plant
Diammonium phosphateReg. (EU) 2016/548
ITAB
Orchards including cherry tree (Prunus spp.)AttractantMediterranean
fruit fly
(Ceratitis capitata),
Cherry fly
(Rhagoletis cerasi)
Placed in physical trapsNaMass trapping: 1 trap per tree up to 100 traps/ha42–56 17max 4 kg/hLMass trapping: max 100Mass trapping: max 4 kg/haNa
Olive trees (Olea europaea)Olive fly
(Bactrocera oleae)
Citrus spp.Mediterranean
fruit fly
(Ceratitis capitata)
Other crops
where C. capitata
cause damage
Sunflower oilReg. (EU) 2016/1978
ITAB
Tomato
(Lycopersicum
esculentum)
FungicideTomato powdery mildew
(Pseudoidium neolycopersici)
Foliar
application
spraying
BBCH 32–37
then BBCH 61–71
2 to 480.092 kg/hL (0.1 L)
–0.46 kg/hL
(0.5 L)
500 to
1000
0.46 kg/hL
(0.5 L)–
4.6 kg/hL
(5 L)
2Precautions must be taken to avoid overwatering and spilling of the dispersion.
Treatment should be avoided during flowering time
Urtica spp.Reg. (EU) 2017/419
ITAB
Fruit trees
Apple tree
(Malus domestica),
Plum tree
(Prunus domestica),
Peach tree
(Prunus persica),
Red currant
(Ribes rubrum),
Walnut tree (Juglans
sp.),
Cherry tree
(Prunus sp.)
Insecticide, fungicide, acaricidePeach-potato
Aphid (Myzus persicae, Macrosiphum
rosae), wolly
Apple aphid
(Eriosoma
lanigerum),
Currant aphid (Cryptomyzus ribis),
Walnut aphid (Callaphis juglandis),
Black cherry
aphid (Myzus cerasi)
Foliar
spraying
or
Shoot
spraying
Directly
on
aphids
Spring summer
until BBCH 87
(fruit ripe for
picking)
1–57–151500 g/hL
(dry matter) 18
300–900 L/ha4500–13,500 g/ha 177Preventive treatment
is inefficient 24 h of
maceration at 20 °C is
enough
Bean, for example
French bean
(Phaseolus vulgaris)
Black bean aphid
(Aphis fabae)
Spring
Summer
until
BBCH 89
(fully ripe)
300–500 L/ha 184500–7500 g/ha 18
Potato
(Solanum tuberosum)
Peach-potato aphid
(Myzus persicae)
NaSpring
Summer
until BBCH 49
(end of tuber
formation)
NaNaNa4500–10,000
g/ha 17
Na
Leaf
Vegetables:
Lettuce (Lactuca
sativa),
Cabbage
(Brassica olaeracea)
Aphids, for example:
cabbage aphid
(Brevicoryne brassicae), Nazonoviaribis nigri)
Foliar
spraying
or
shoot
spraying
directly
on
aphids
Spring
Summer
until BBCH 19
(9 or more
true leaves
unfolded)
1–57–151500 g/hL
(dry matter) 18
4500–
7500 g/ha 18
7Preventive treatment is inefficient
24 h of maceration
at 20 °C is enough
Elder tree
(Sambucus racemosa)
Elder aphid (Aphis sambuci)Spring
Summer
400–8006000–
12,000 g/ha 18
Rose
(Rosa sp.)
Rose aphid
(Macrosyphum rosae)
300–6004500–9000
g/ha 18
Spiraea sp.Aphis spiraephaga
Brassicaceae
(cabbage—Brassica oleracea, rapeseed—
Brassica napus,
radish—
Raphanus sativus)
Fleabeetle
(Phyllotreta nemorum)
Foliar
spraying
Spring
Summer
Until BBCH 19
(9 or more
true leaves
unfolded
1–6300–500
4500–10,000
g/ha 18
Diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella)Spring
Summer until
BBCH 49
(Typical leaf
mass reached)
Apple tree
(Malus domestica),
Peer tree
(Pyrus communis)
Codling moth
(Cydia pomonella)
2 treatments
in April, 1
treatment in
May
315300–9004500–13,500
g/ha 18
Bean, for example
French bean
(Phaseolus vulgaris)
Two-spotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae)Spring
Summer
Until BBCH 89
(fully ripe)
1–6
(commonly
3)
7–21300
–500
4500–7500
g/ha 18
724 h of
maceration at 20 °C is enough
Grapevine
(Vitis vinifera)
Two-spotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae), red spider mite (Tetranychus telarius)Spring
Summer
Until BBCH 89
stage
1–6
(three
before
flowering,
three
after
flowering)
300–6004500–9000
g/ha 18
Brassicaceae
(Mustard family,
Brassica sp.,
Sinapis sp., radish—
Raphanus sativus)
Alternaria sp.Foliar
spraying
Spring
Summer
until
BBCH 49
(typical
leaf mass
reached)
1–67–151500
g/hL
(Based on dry
matter) 18
300–5004500–7500
g/ha 18
7
Cucurbitaceae
(Cucumber—
Cucumis sativus)
Powdery mildew (Erysiphe polygoni),
Alternaria alternata f. sp. cucurbitae
Until BBCH 89
(typical fully ripe
colour)
Fruit trees
(Apple trees—
Malus domestica,
Plum trees—
Prunus domestica,
Peach trees–
Prunus persica,
Sweet cherry tree—
Prunus avium)
Leaf spot (Alternaria alternata),
brown rot, blossom blight (Monilinia laxa), Botrytis cinerea, back bread
mold (Rhizopus stolonifer)
Foliar
and
Fruit
spraying
Spring
Summer
Until BBCH 87
(fruit ripe for picking)
300–9004500–13,500
g/ha 18
Grapevine
(Vitis vinifera)
Downy mildew (Plasmopara viticola)Foliar
spraying
Spring
Summer
Until BBCH 89
stage
1500 g/hL
(Dry matter) 19
300–6004500–
9000 g/ha 18
Potato (Solanum tuberosum)Late blight
(Phytophthora infestans)
Spring
Summer
Until BBCH 49
(End of
tuber formation)
300–5004500–7500 g/ha 18
Cucumber
roots
(Cucumis
sativus)
Powdery mildew
(Podosphaera fusca),
Root fungi like
common root rot,
seedling blight (Pythium spp.)
Included
in
mulch
Not
relevant
1NaNaNa15 kg/ha 18NaDry plant aerial parts
Tomato
(Lycopersicum
esculentum)
Early blight
(Alternaria solani),
Septoria blight
(Septoria lycopsersici)
Ornamental
trees use
of which
Prunus spp.
Roses
(Rosa spp.)
Ornamental
cryptogramic diseases
Rose black spot (Marsonia spp.),
Rose rust
(Phragmidium mucronatum),
leaf curl diseases, monilioses,
Oidium and mildew
Clayed charcoalReg. (EU) 2017/428
Ets Christian Callegari
Grapevine
(Vitis vinifera)
ProtectantEsca (black measles) caused by a complex of fungi that includes
several species of
Phaeoacremonium
primarily by
Phaeoacremonium minimum (Pm)
(currently known as P. ultimum), and by
Phaeomoniella
chlamydospora (Pch)
Soil buryingNa1/3 years1095NaNa500Na
Hydrogen peroxideReg. (EU) 2017/409
ITAB
Vegetables—Solanaceae like tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum), bell pepper (Capsicum spp.)Fungicide, bactericideSoil bacteria (Ralstonia solanacerum),
Botrytis cinerea
Apply before cuttingNaTo be applied before every use of the toolNaNaNaNaNaWaiting period 30 s after washing
Lettuce (Lactuca sativa)Bacterial leaf spot pathogen
(Xanthomonas
campestris pv. vitians)
Seed treatment before sowing 19Na1 Seeds are immersed in the prepared solution for 5 to 15 min (seed treatment)
Horticulture
flowers
like
common
zinnia
(Zinnia
elegans)
Fungi, especially
pathogenic
Alternaria zinnia,
Alternaria alternata,
Fusarium spp.
Sodium chlorideReg. (EU) 2017/1529
Reg. (EU) 2021/556
ITAB
AHDB
Grapevine
(Vitis vinifera)
Fungicide, insecticide, herbicideFungal diseases
Powdery
mildews
(Erysiphe
necator)
Foliar
application
spraying
From 1st shoots
(BBCH 10)
to cluster
tightening
(BBCH 57)
Spring to
summer
1–2Na600–
2000 g/hL
2001200–400030In case of 2 applications: one at 20 g/L + one at only 10 g/L. Maximum total rate of salt shall not exceed 6 kg/ha per year.
Careful application should be controlled in terms of spray and target should be only the foliage. Low volumes are recommended in order to avoid spill. It is recommended not to spray every
year, only in emergency cases.
Maximum total rate of sodium chloride shall not exceed 6 kg/ha per year
Mushrooms
like
Agaricus
bisporus
Fungal diseases
like
cobweb disease
(Cladobotryum
strains—i.e.,
Mycophilum),
dry bubble
disease
(Lecanicillium
fungicola),
wet bubble
disease
(Mycogone
perniciosa)
Hand trowel cup scoopOn finding the pathogen.
No earlier than 16 days into
grow cycle
1Na0.03 g/kg–Dry80–100 g/haNaSalt is used as a spot treatment to cover incidents of disease. On a well-managed farm, disease will
be spotted early with specialist teams identifying and spot
treating. This avoids harvesters accidently spreading disease
thorough contamination of
personal protective equipment
(PPE) and transfer to other areas.
This in turn will keep on site disease levels low and avoid the use of large volumes of salt.
Grapevine
(Vitis vinifera)
European
grapevine
moth (Lobesia
botrana)
Foliar
application
spraying
1st late April to May
(BBCH 55–57)
2nd July
(BBCH 75–77) 3rd September
(BBCH 83–91)
1–3Depen-ding on egg stage600 g/ha2001200–3600 g/ha30Careful application should be controlled in terms of spray and target should be only the foliage. Low volumes are recommended to avoid spill. It is recommended not to spray every
year, only in emergency cases
Salt swamps
and salt marshes
Baccharis
halimfolia
Spot
application
on drilled
tree stump
or on soil
in direct
vicinity of
tree stump
November
–February
1NaNaNa10–100 g
per tree
stump 20
NaTreatment is
allowed only in salt
marshes and salt swamps zones as
defined by national or
local authorities.
Treatment should be performed outside the rainy period
BeerReg. (EU) 2017/2090
ITAB
All edible and nonedible cropsMolluscicidePest slugs
and snails
Specific traps for slugsAt the beginning of infestation1–5NaNot applicable (because ready to use liquid)NaNaNa
Mustard seed powderReg. (EU) 2017/2066
ITAB
Wheat
seeds (Triticum
vulgare,
Triticum aestivum),
Durum
wheat (Triticum
durum),
Spelt (Triticum
spelta)
Fungicide for seed treatmentFungi like
Common
Bunt (Tilletia caries,
Tilletia foetida)
Seed
application
before
sowing
Summer
to
Autumn
1NaNaNa1.5 kg/100 kg seedsNaMix 1.5 kg of mustard seeds powder with 4.5 L water. Treat 100 kg seeds with the slurry created
Talc E553BReg. (EU) 2018/691
COMPO Expert France SAS
Fruit trees
i.e., Apple fruit
(Malus
Domestica),
Pear tree
(Pyrus sp.),
Olive tree
(Olea
europea),
etc.
Insectifuge, fungifugePhysical barrier,
Insectifuge:
Insects and
mites like
Cacopsylla pyri,
Cacopsylla
fulguralis,
Drosophila
suzukii,
Panonychus
ulmi,
Bactrocera oleae
Foliar
application
spraying
From
BBCH
41
2–521–281st application:
2.13 to 3.54 kg/hL
succeeding
applications: 1.7 to 2.83 kg/hL
600–10001st
application:
21.25 kg/ha
succeeding
applications: 17 kg/ha
NaWater solution
prepared just
before application
and maintained stirred
Fruit trees
i.e., Apple fruit
(Malus
Domestica),
Pear tree
(Pyrus sp.)
Physical barrier,
Fungifuge:
Foliar fungi like
mildews (Venturia inaequalis,
Erysiphe necator)
3–514–211.28–2.13 kg/hL12.75 kg/ha
Grapevine
(Vitis vinifera)
From BBCH 202–521–284.25–8.5 kg/hL150–300
Onion oilReg. (EU) 2018/1295
Bionext
Carrots, celery,
parsnip,
parsley
root
Repellent, scent maskingCarrot root fly (Psilla rosae)Masking the smell of the
umbelliferous
crop by
onion oil
evaporated
from
dispensers
Shortly after
planting or
crop
emergence
(around mid–April) until
end of November
(before harvest)
1NaNaPot dispensers
0.08–0.160
L/ha
Granule
Dispenser
17.6–35.2 g/ha
NaNa4–8 dispensers per ha professional use only
L-cysteineReg. (EU) 2020/642
Soleo-EcoSolutions
All crops and forestry in tropical areasInsecticideLeaf cutting antsHand held spreaderPost swarming (July)1–3303–36 kg granules/haNaMin 0.015 kg/ha Max 2.88 kg/ha 21NaUsed as an insecticide against ants. Application is made by hand on nest of ants. The application can be renewed, if necessary, with a maximum of 3 applications. Minimum/Maximum number of nests by hectare: 10–120
Cow milkReg. (EU) 2020/1004
Basic-Eco-Logique
Grapevine
(Vitis vinifera)
Fungicide and virucidePowdery mildew (Erysiphe necator)Foliar application SprayingFrom 1st shoots (BBCH 07) to inflorescences fully developed; flowers separating (BBCH 57) 223–66–810–40 L/hL100–30010–120 L/haNa
Vegetable Gardening pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo)Pumpkins
powdery mildew
(Podosphaera fusca)
From leaf development (BBCH 01) until flowering (BBCH 06) 233–47–1250 L/hL400200 L/haNo application in presence of
fruits
Flower
Gerbera
(Gerbera
jamesonii)
Powdery mildew (Erysiphe
cichoracearum)
Before and
during
flowering
(BBCH 51–69)
3–4716 L/hL500–100080–160 L/ha8
Cucumber (Cucumis sativus), Zucchini squash (Cucurbita pepo)Powdery
Mildew (Podosphaera fuliginea)
From three weeks after sowing (9th leaf unfolded on main stem) to 9 or more primary side shoots visible (BBCH 19–49) 243–45–10 L/hL1000–150050–150 L/haNa
Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr)Soybean Powdery mildew (Erysiphe diffusa)On leaves (BBCH 19–49)3–4718 L/hL1000–1500180–270 L/ha
Glove
fingertips
and
mechanical
cutting tools
All crops
Viruses (mechanically transferable) e.g., Tobacco mosaic virus (TMV), Tomato
mosaic virus (ToMV), Pepper mild mottle virus (PMMV), Cucumber green mottle mosaic virus (CGMMV)
DippingOn toolsBefore/after
every plant
contact
Before/after
every plant
contact
Before/after
every plant
contact
NaNa Dipping for 2 s.
For reasons of efficacy use milk
with at least 3,5% protein
content.
Replace the milk regularly (e.g.,
after each crop row) to prevent
cross-contamination of the plants
Allium cepa bulb extractReg. (EU) 2021/81
ITAB
Potatoes
(Solanum
tuberosum)
FungicideEarly blight (Alternaria solani)SprayBBCH 21–853–571 kg/hL600–
1000
6–10 L/ha (0.3–0.5 kg onion bulb/ha)Na
Vegetable Gardening Tomato (Lycopersicum esculentum)Tomato late blight (Phytophthora
infestans)
75 days after planting BBCH 21–753–4150015 L/ha (0.75 kg onion bulb/ha)
Cucumber (Cucumis sativus)Cucumber gray mold (Botrytis cinerea)7
ChitosanReg. (EU) 2022/456
KitoZyme
HorticultureFungicidePlant elicitor, plant resistance against pathogenic fungi and bacteriaSpray
Low–Medium
volume spraying
BBCH 09 to BBCH 894–82 weeks50–100 g/hL200–400100–400NaChitosan can be prepared for use following any of the two recipes provided in Appendix of Reg. (EU) 2022/456 (preparation for use).
olive treesFrom 1st new leaf development BBCH 10 to development of fruit BBCH 71800–3200
grapes200–600800–7800
grassBBCH 09 to BBCH 89200–400800–3200
postharvest fruit treatmentPathogenic fungi and bacteriaImmersionPostharvest
BBCH 89+
1-1--
1 IBA: Interval between applications; PHI: minimum preharvest interval; Na: Data not available; 2 The product cannot be applied in case of hot temperature. It is used in case of rainy period; 3 Indirect actions, no direct insecticide and fungicide properties; 4 maximum of rate per application; 5 maximum total rate per crop/season; 6 The aqueous solutions in this application are applied with few or without dilution. Here the case without dilution is calculated. Usually, not all trees are treated with brush application but only injured trees. In the calculation of maximum rate, it was assumed that 3000 trees per ha are treated with 0.15 L product per tree. This means that all trees of an orchard would be treated with several big wounds, which would be really the maximum rate and in reality, is very improbable; 7 Expressed as acetic acid. 1/1 dilution of vinegar/water L/L; 8 Considering 0.9 to 2 qt of seeds per ha; 9 Expressed as acetic acid. 50 mL/1 L dilution of vinegar/water for vinegar at 8% acetic acid; 10 Of main active substance acetic acid for vinegar at 10% acetic acid; 11 Expressed as acetic acid in a preparation with 60% vinegar (diluted in water), for vinegar at 10% acetic acid; 12 Treatments must be delayed 24–48 h or more after rain; 13 Spray when there is sun (preferably morning); 14 Do not apply when any plant is at a later growth stage than BBCH 49; 15 With a maximum of 10% concentration (30 L in 300 L); 16 Do not apply on treating fingertips right before or during harvest of edible commodities; 17 Depending upon environmental factors such as climate and topography; 18 The quantities of fresh nettle (or dry matter) written represents the quantities of nettle used in the recipe, but not the quantities that are effectively put in field—there is a filtration before; 19 Treatment, just before sowing; 20 Assuming plant density of between 0.1/m2 to 1/m2; 21 300 g of granules per nest multiplied by 120 nest/ha = 36 kg product/ha. Considering a maximum of 8% L-cysteine in the product, the maximum application rate per treatment of L-cysteine is 2.88 kg/ha; 22 Do not apply when any plant is at a later growth stage than BBCH 57; 23 Do not apply when any plant in the greenhouse is at a later growth stage than BBCH 06 and in presence of fruits; 24 Do not apply when any plant in the greenhouse is at a later growth stage than BBCH 49.
Table 2. Typical uses of the basic substances.
Table 2. Typical uses of the basic substances.
Substance NameUse(s)ApplicationRecipeFormulation Type
Equisetum arv-enseFungicideSpraying on crops2–2.25% water dilution
200 to 225 g/100 L water
The product cannot be applied in case of hot tem-perature. It is used in case of rainy period
Dispersible concen-trate
Dry9 kg/100 kg mulchMulch
Chitosan hydrochlorideElicitorSpraying on crops or seeds0.05–0.2% water dilution
50 to 200 g/100 L water
Must be applied within 24 h
Soluble powder, paste
Sodium hydrogen carbonateFungicideAerial parts spraying0.33–2% water dilution
333 to 2000 g/100 L water
Soluble powder
Postharvest dipping1–4% water dilution
1 to 4 kg/100 L water
HerbicideDirect dusting10 g for a 50 cm Ø potDry powder
Sunflower oilFungicideFoliar spraying0.1–0.5% water dilution
100 to 500 mL/100 L water
Oil dispersion
Hydrogen peroxideSeed treatmentSeeds soakingReady-to-use solution (<5%)Ready-to-use solution
Urtica spp.Fungicide InsecticideSpraying3–4 days maceration in water at 20 °C
Fresh leaves (75 g/L) or dried leaves (15 g/L)
Water dilution by 6 of filtered maceration
Dispersible concentrate
Mulch incorporationAddition of dried aerial parts. 83 g/kg of mulchMulch
Clayed charcoalProtectantSoil buryingBuried. 500 kg/hectare maximumPellet
Sodium chlorideFungicide InsecticideFoliar spraying0.6–2% water dilution
600 to 2000 g/100 L water
Soluble powder
Substrate buryingMix salt in the substrate. 30 g/kg substrate (3%)Pellet
BeerMolluscicideTrapCovered slug traps. 1 trap per m2 maximumPure product
Di Ammonium PhosphateAttractantTrapPlace in traps/bottle, 30 g/L.Soluble powder
Onion oilOdor maskOil dispenserFill the dispenser with onion oil only (20 mL)
Fill the dispenser with oil then add the pellets (4.4 g oil per 30 g granule)
Oil or pellet
L-cysteineInsecticideHand-held
spreader
Mixture with matrix (flour, food grade) at a concentration of maximum 8%Bait (ready for use)
Cow milkFungicideFoliar spraying5–50% water dilution = 0.5 to 5 L of cow milk filled up with water to 10 LSoluble concentrate
DippingDipping tools for 2 s in undiluted cow milk. For reasons of efficacy use milk with at least 3.5% protein content
Allium cepa L. bulb extractFungicideSpray applicationBoil 500 g of chopped onions in 10 L of water for ten minutes then let infuse for a quarter of an hour and filter the mixtureDispersible concentrate
ChitosanFungicideSpray application
&
Immersion
Preparation 1: added to a half-filled water tank, making sure the powder is evenly distributed over the water surface to avoid aggregation. The mixture should be stirred vigorously while adding the remaining water. The mixture should be used as soon as possible.
Preparation 2: dissolved in water with pH < 5. The pH of water should be regulated by adding 7 mL vinegar (8% of acetic acid) per 1 L of water).
Soluble powder
VinegarFungicideSeed
treatment
Vinegar to be diluted in compliance with the rates of application reported in Appendix II.
Undiluted for uses as herbicide on medicinal aromatic and perfume crops.
For the herbicidal use in spot applications on paths, borders, sidewalks and terraces, vinegar needs to be diluted to a concentration of 60% vinegar in water (60/40 vinegar/water).
Liquid for seed treatment
Tools
disinfection
HerbicideSpray or spot
application/
Liquid
pH modifierIn combination with chitosanLiquid
Some applications were not validated by DGSanté and Member States during discussion and votes. Some were withdrawn (Table 3) by applicants during evaluation or discussions with no regulatory trace, while some were processed up to the vote and finally non-approved with corresponding Implementing Regulations (Table 4).
Table 3. Basic substance applications retired during the evaluation process.
Table 3. Basic substance applications retired during the evaluation process.
Basic Substances Removed/Withdrawn during Evaluation
Substance NameIntended Use(s)EFSA OpinionReason(s)
Castaneaand Schinopsis sp. tanninsBactericide, fungicide and nematicideEN 1363Limited number of studies about toxicity and residues led to a doubt concerning exposure assessment. Non-dietary exposure considered as hazardous
Honey from rhododendronRodenticideEN 1155Lack of studies concerning substance composition and efficacy on rodents. Rodents in traps might suffer ‘too long’
Extract from rhododendronRodenticideEN 1596Lack of studies concerning substance composition and efficacy on rodents. Rodents in traps might suffer ‘too long’
Quassiaamara extractInsecticide and repellentEN 1382Data gaps were identified for genotoxicity, residues, environmental risk and exposure assessment. Concerns were raised regarding reproductive and endocrine toxicity
Valeriana officinalisFrost protectionNonePotential neurotoxicity, Valerian herbal tea makes it easier to fall asleep
Citrus pulp-None-
Potassium metabisulfite-None-
Didecyl-dimethylammonium chloride (DDAC)-RN-214Toxic to aquatic organisms
Table 4. Basic substance applications refused (non-approval).
Table 4. Basic substance applications refused (non-approval).
Substances Not Approved by the European Commission
Substance NameIntended Use(s)Implementing RegulationEFSA OpinionReason(s)
Achillea millefolium L.Fungicide and insecticideEU no. 2017/2057EN 1093Risk assessment for toxicology and ecotoxicology not comprehensive enough left doubts and substance is not considered as foodstuff
Arctium lappa L. aerial partsFungicide and insecticideEU no. 2082/2015EN 699Risk assessment for toxicology and ecotoxicology not comprehensive enough left doubts and substance is not considered as foodstuff
Artemisia absinthium L.Fungicide, nematicide and insecticideEU no. 2015/2046EN 665Risk assessment for toxicology and ecotoxicology not comprehensive enough left doubts and Regulation (EC) 1334/2008 fixes limits for this substance
Artemisia vulgaris L.Insecticide/repellentEU no. 2015/1191EN 644Risk assessment for toxicology and ecotoxicology not comprehensive enough left doubts and Regulation (EC) 1334/2008 fixes limits for this substance
Capsicum annuum L. var. annuum, longum group, cayenne, extract (Oleoresin capsicum)RepellentEU no.2021/464EN 1838Risk assessment for toxicology show genotoxicity, causing serious eye damage, being harmful if swallowed and also as cause of skin irritation, although substance is considered as foodstuff
CaffeineMolluscicideEU no. 2022/xxEN 6423Proposal for non-approval under discussion
Carbon dioxideRodenticideEU no. 2021/80None-
Comfrey steepingFungicide and insecticideEU no. 2021/809EN 1753Risk assessment for toxicology and ecotoxicology not comprehensive enough left doubts and Regulation (EC) 1334/2008 fixes limits for this substance
Dimethyl
Sulfide
AttractantEU no. 2021/1451EN 1911Risk assessment for toxicology and ecotoxicology not provided for long-term toxicity and carcinogenicity concern
Grape (Vitis vinifera) cane tanninsFungicideEU no. 2020/29EN 1414Risk assessment for toxicology and ecotoxicology not comprehensive enough left doubts and substance is not considered as foodstuff
Landes pine tarProtectant and repellentEU no. 2018/1294EN 1311It may contain substances of concern, so there is a lack of data, so risk assessment is not comprehensive enough and left doubts
Origanum vulgare L. essential oilFungicide, bactericide and insecticideEU no. 2017/241EN 1054Risk assessment for toxicology and ecotoxicology not comprehensive enough left doubts
Paprika extract E160cRepellentEU no. 2017/2067EN 1096Risk assessment for toxicology and ecotoxicology not comprehensive enough left doubts
Potassium sorbateFungicideEU no. 2017/2058EN 1232Lack of data concerning residues lead to an impossibility concerning exposition assessment
Propolis (water soluble extract)Fungicide and bactericideEU no. 2020/640EN-1494Defined as a skin sensitizer, risk assessment for genotoxicity and endocrine disruption toxicity left doubts. No safe limit for the use. Substance is not considered as foodstuff
Rheum officinale roots extractFungicideEU no. 2015/707EN 617Risk assessment for toxicology and ecotoxicology not comprehensive enough left doubts and substance is not considered as foodstuff
Saponaria
officinalis L. roots
Acaricide and elicitorEU no. 2020/643EN 1263Risk assessment for toxicology and ecotoxicology not comprehensive enough left doubts
Satureja montana L. essential oilFungicide and bactericideEU no. 2017/240EN 1051Risk assessment for toxicology and ecotoxicology not comprehensive enough left doubts
Tanacetum vulgare L.RepellentEU no. 2015/2083EN 666Risk assessment for toxicology and ecotoxicology not comprehensive enough left doubts and substance is not considered as foodstuff
Willow bark and stem extractPlant growth and defense elicitorEU no.2022/EN 1872Previously proposed for non-approval since not sold for other uses, proposal under discussion, may be accepted.
Table 5. Examples of requests from the retailer of the amount of the Maximum Residue Level (MRL) and Acute reference doses (ARfD).
Table 5. Examples of requests from the retailer of the amount of the Maximum Residue Level (MRL) and Acute reference doses (ARfD).
RetailerMax. %MRL/
Active
Substance
Max.
Sum %MRL/Sample
Max. %ARfD/Active
Substance
Max. Sum %ARfD/SampleMax.
Number of Active
Substances
/Samples
ALDI/
HOFER
Molecules 27 03484 i00170%80%70%80%3–5
ALBERT HEIJN Molecules 27 03484 i00250%-50%--
ASDA Molecules 27 03484 i00380%----
BILLA Molecules 27 03484 i004100%-100%--
DOHLA Molecules 27 03484 i005-70%-70%3–5
EDEKA Molecules 27 03484 i00670%-100%-5
EDEKA OWN BRANDS50%-70%-5
GLOBUS Molecules 27 03484 i00770%-70%100%5
LIDL Molecules 27 03484 i00833.3%80%100%-5
KAUFLAND Molecules 27 03484 i00933.3%80%50%50%5
NORMA Molecules 27 03484 i010-70%-70%5
METRO Molecules 27 03484 i01150%80%70%100%5
MIGROS Molecules 27 03484 i012----6
NETTO Molecules 27 03484 i01370%-100%-5
REWE Molecules 27 03484 i01450%100%70%100%5
REWE OWN BRANDS50%100%50%-5
TEGUT Molecules 27 03484 i01570%-70%-Max. 4 (>0.01 mg/kg)
TENGEL MANN Molecules 27 03484 i01670%150%70%100%-
Table 6. Examples of the applications of the basic substances in research projects.
Table 6. Examples of the applications of the basic substances in research projects.
Substance NameUse(s)ProgramReference
Horsetail (Equisetum arvense L.)FungicideCasdar ‘4P’
Coppereplace
[24,25,26]
White willow bark (Salix cortex)FungicideCasdar ‘4P’[24,25]
VinegarSeed treatmentCasdar ‘Carie’[27]; http://itab.asso.fr/programmes/carie-ble.php, accessed on 23 May 2022.
Mustard seed powderSeed treatment
SucroseElicitorEcophyto ‘Usage’ and Casdar ‘Sweet’, ABAPIC[28]; https://ecophytopic.fr/cuivre-viticulture/proteger/micro-doses-de-sucre, accessed on 23 May 2022.
[29]; https://ecophytopic.fr/sites/default/files/USAGE.pdf, accessed on 23 May 2022.
FructoseElicitor
LecithinFungicideCasdar ‘HE’[30]; https://ecophytopic.fr/recherche-innovation/proteger/projet-he, accessed on 23 May 2022.
TalcFungicideout of program[31]
WheyFungicide[32]
Di-ammonium phosphate (DAP)Attractant[33]; https://ecophytopic.fr/pic/proteger/proteger-ses-oliviers-de-la-mouches-en-limitant-les-traitements, accessed on 23 May 2022.
Calcium hydroxideFungicide[34]; https://www.researchgate.net/publication/279636728_The_post-infection_activity_of_hydrated_lime_against_conidia_of_Venturia_inaequalis, accessed on 23 May 2022.
Chitosan hydrochlorideFungicideVitinnova[35]; www.vitinnova.it/en, accessed on 23 May 2022.
Euphresco BasicS[16]; https://www.researchgate.net/project/EUPHRESCO-Basic-substances-as-an-environmentally-friendly-alternative-to-synthetic-pesticides-for-plant-protection-BasicS, accessed on 23 May 2022.
PRIMA StopMedWaste[36]; www.stopmedwaste.eu, accessed on 23 May 2022.
ZeroSprechi[37]; www.zerosprechi.info/en/zerosprechi, accessed on 23 May 2022.
CleanSeed[38]; https://www.cleanseed.it/en/cleanseed-2/, accessed on 23 May 2022.
Each use of plant extracts and natural products, such as decoctions, herbal teas, or aqueous solutions, have been defined and tested in the field or identified from the literature then controlled or cross-referenced with producer surveys. Whenever water is mentioned in these tests, it is either natural spring water or rainwater. Each basic substance preparation is described in Section 2.5 of Basic substances applications in EU 2012. The evaluation process of the basic substance application is getting longer, and legal delays fixed by EC are not consistently respected. The evaluation process lasts an average of 19 months (Supplementary Table S1 and Figure S1), while the legal maximum delay is fixed at 18 months until basic substance application admissibility. Even not considering admissibility evaluation delays that are considered outside of the evaluation process, this process becomes longer from year to year, resulting in a delay in availability of additional basic substances.
Publisher’s Note: MDPI stays neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations.

Share and Cite

MDPI and ACS Style

Romanazzi, G.; Orçonneau, Y.; Moumni, M.; Davillerd, Y.; Marchand, P.A. Basic Substances, a Sustainable Tool to Complement and Eventually Replace Synthetic Pesticides in the Management of Pre and Postharvest Diseases: Reviewed Instructions for Users. Molecules 2022, 27, 3484. https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/molecules27113484

AMA Style

Romanazzi G, Orçonneau Y, Moumni M, Davillerd Y, Marchand PA. Basic Substances, a Sustainable Tool to Complement and Eventually Replace Synthetic Pesticides in the Management of Pre and Postharvest Diseases: Reviewed Instructions for Users. Molecules. 2022; 27(11):3484. https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/molecules27113484

Chicago/Turabian Style

Romanazzi, Gianfranco, Yann Orçonneau, Marwa Moumni, Yann Davillerd, and Patrice André Marchand. 2022. "Basic Substances, a Sustainable Tool to Complement and Eventually Replace Synthetic Pesticides in the Management of Pre and Postharvest Diseases: Reviewed Instructions for Users" Molecules 27, no. 11: 3484. https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/molecules27113484

Article Metrics

Back to TopTop