Contamination, heavy metals- SE KRAV Standards 2006

Mattsson, Eva (2006) Contamination, heavy metals- SE KRAV Standards 2006. [Organic rules - Differences between other regulations/standards and EEC No 2092/91]

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Summary

There are maximum limits for the amounts of heavy metals brought into farmland by the use of inputs (fertilizers, soil conditioners, chemical pesticides, herbicides) or indirectly by the use in animal husbandry (feed, feed minerals and medicines). Fertilisers and soil conditioners shall be analysed when there is a reason to expect high concentrations of contaminants (KRAV Standards paragraph 4.2.5 and 4.3.7). There are limits for lead, cadmium, copper, chromium, mercury, nickel and zinc (Annex 3).

Difference

In the EU regulation 2092/91 there are limitations for the heavy metal content of composted or fermented household waste, fur and aluminium calcium phosphate, but not for the amounts of heavy metals brought into a farm, whereas the KRAV standards have a more general approach to the issue of heavy metal contamination of soil.

Justification

There are increasing amounts of heavy metals in the agricultural nutrient circulation system. Organic agriculture is dependent on the soil and the nutrients in the soil to produce food and feed. There is also an increased risk for the use of not so well known fertilisers which will fulfil organic standards but where the heavy metal content might be too high. An organic farmer should have full knowledge about what is brought into the farm and in to the soil.

EU Regulation

Annex II. Permitted substances for the production of organic foods > Substances for plants and plant production - Annex 2

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