Latest news with #GoodAgriculturalPractices
Scoop
21-05-2025
- General
- Scoop
Proposed Increase To Glyphosate Limits
Press Release – Science Media Centre The proposed amendments change or set maximum residue levels in food sold in NZ for 14 substances, including glyphosate. Glyphosate limits would increase for certain cereal and pea crops, to support existing use as a preharvest herbicide or … NZ Food Safety has proposed changing the residue limits allowed in food for several agricultural compounds. The proposed amendments change or set maximum residue levels in food sold in NZ for 14 substances, including glyphosate (used in Roundup herbicide). Glyphosate limits would increase for certain cereal and pea crops, to 'support existing use' as a preharvest herbicide or dessicant. Submissions on the proposal closed on Friday, and the proposed amendments may progress, be modified, or be withdrawn. The Science Media Centre asked experts to comment. Associate Professor Melanie Kah, School of Environment, University of Auckland, comments: 'NZ Food Safety recently proposed to amend the Maximum Residue Limit for a dozen pesticides. The one for glyphosate raised concerns probably because glyphosate is often taken as an example for toxic pesticides by the public, even though it is a substance with a relatively low toxicity compared to other pesticides. 'The Maximum Residue Limit for glyphosate is proposed to be raised from a default value (0.1 mg/kg) to 10 mg/kg, which is similar or lower compared to Australian and international limits. The change is proposed to reflect potential residues resulting from current uses of glyphosate as pre-harvest desiccant following Good Agricultural Practices (i.e. how the product should be used following label instructions). It does not mean farmers will aim to have that level on produce. Surveys generally indicate that levels of residues are lower than that. 'Rather than focusing on the Maximum Residue Limit value and glyphosate in particular, I would question the practice of using herbicides as pre-harvest desiccant to facilitate harvest, which is a practice that is banned in other parts of the world e.g. Europe, mainly due to concerns related to residues on grains and impact on environmental health.' No conflicts of interest. Professor John D. Potter, Centre for Public Health Research, Massey University, comments: 'Glyphosate is a herbicide that now accounts for about 25% of the world's biocide use. 'Glyphosate was identified in 2015 as a probable human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer, the cancer research arm of WHO. It has since been shown, in animal experiments, to also cause changes in intestinal microbes and the structure and permeability (increasing leakiness) of the wall of the intestine as well as altering lipid metabolism. 'Further, as it disrupts these microbes, it is probably altering the structure, function, and balance of those that live in the soil, with knock-on effects on soil quality, crop-raising, etc. It has now been banned and restricted in many countries. 'It is widespread in food and in human blood worldwide. As a consequence, it is difficult to establish the full range of impacts on human health because there are almost no unexposed people to compare with those who are exposed. 'What is clear is that as 'acceptable' levels rise, spraying will result in increased exposure for those who apply this herbicide for a living and for those who live downwind from sprayed crops. 'The Precautionary Principle would suggest that it is up to glyphosate's advocates to prove its safety and, in the absence of such proof, to reduce or eliminate exposure. 'At the very least, Aotearoa's government can be asked why they would choose now, in face of the evidence, to reduce restrictions.' No conflicts of interest. Professor of Toxicology Ian Shaw, School of Physical & Chemical Sciences, University of Canterbury, comments: 'The government is proposing an increase in the Maximum Residue Level for the herbicide glyphosate (the active ingredient in Roundup) from the default level of 0.1 mg/kg to 10.0 mg/kg. 'Pesticide Maximum Residue Levels are determined by measuring the concentration in a crop that was treated with the pesticide under Good Agricultural Practice. Maximum Residue Levels are trading standards, not consumer safety measures. 'The Acceptable Daily Intake is a consumer safety standard. Estimating glyphosate intake at the proposed new MRL (for example in wheat) shows that the proposed limit is of little or no toxicological concern. For glyphosate, the Acceptable Daily Intake is based on long term effects in rats. 'The government is also revising the genetically modified organism legislation. This might result in the approval of GM glyphosate resistant (Roundup Ready) crops in New Zealand. 'The use of glyphosate on Roundup Ready crops means higher crop residues, which would necessitate a higher Maximum Residue Level to facilitate trade. The cynic in me wonders if the two proposed legislative changes are linked.'
Scoop
21-05-2025
- Health
- Scoop
Proposed Increase To Glyphosate Limits
NZ Food Safety has proposed changing the residue limits allowed in food for several agricultural compounds. The proposed amendments change or set maximum residue levels in food sold in NZ for 14 substances, including glyphosate (used in Roundup herbicide). Glyphosate limits would increase for certain cereal and pea crops, to 'support existing use' as a preharvest herbicide or dessicant. Submissions on the proposal closed on Friday, and the proposed amendments may progress, be modified, or be withdrawn. The Science Media Centre asked experts to comment. Associate Professor Melanie Kah, School of Environment, University of Auckland, comments: 'NZ Food Safety recently proposed to amend the Maximum Residue Limit for a dozen pesticides. The one for glyphosate raised concerns probably because glyphosate is often taken as an example for toxic pesticides by the public, even though it is a substance with a relatively low toxicity compared to other pesticides. 'The Maximum Residue Limit for glyphosate is proposed to be raised from a default value (0.1 mg/kg) to 10 mg/kg, which is similar or lower compared to Australian and international limits. The change is proposed to reflect potential residues resulting from current uses of glyphosate as pre-harvest desiccant following Good Agricultural Practices (i.e. how the product should be used following label instructions). It does not mean farmers will aim to have that level on produce. Surveys generally indicate that levels of residues are lower than that. 'Rather than focusing on the Maximum Residue Limit value and glyphosate in particular, I would question the practice of using herbicides as pre-harvest desiccant to facilitate harvest, which is a practice that is banned in other parts of the world e.g. Europe, mainly due to concerns related to residues on grains and impact on environmental health.' No conflicts of interest. Professor John D. Potter, Centre for Public Health Research, Massey University, comments: 'Glyphosate is a herbicide that now accounts for about 25% of the world's biocide use. 'Glyphosate was identified in 2015 as a probable human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer, the cancer research arm of WHO. It has since been shown, in animal experiments, to also cause changes in intestinal microbes and the structure and permeability (increasing leakiness) of the wall of the intestine as well as altering lipid metabolism. 'Further, as it disrupts these microbes, it is probably altering the structure, function, and balance of those that live in the soil, with knock-on effects on soil quality, crop-raising, etc. It has now been banned and restricted in many countries. 'It is widespread in food and in human blood worldwide. As a consequence, it is difficult to establish the full range of impacts on human health because there are almost no unexposed people to compare with those who are exposed. 'What is clear is that as 'acceptable' levels rise, spraying will result in increased exposure for those who apply this herbicide for a living and for those who live downwind from sprayed crops. 'The Precautionary Principle would suggest that it is up to glyphosate's advocates to prove its safety and, in the absence of such proof, to reduce or eliminate exposure. 'At the very least, Aotearoa's government can be asked why they would choose now, in face of the evidence, to reduce restrictions.' No conflicts of interest. Professor of Toxicology Ian Shaw, School of Physical & Chemical Sciences, University of Canterbury, comments: 'The government is proposing an increase in the Maximum Residue Level for the herbicide glyphosate (the active ingredient in Roundup) from the default level of 0.1 mg/kg to 10.0 mg/kg. 'Pesticide Maximum Residue Levels are determined by measuring the concentration in a crop that was treated with the pesticide under Good Agricultural Practice. Maximum Residue Levels are trading standards, not consumer safety measures. 'The Acceptable Daily Intake is a consumer safety standard. Estimating glyphosate intake at the proposed new MRL (for example in wheat) shows that the proposed limit is of little or no toxicological concern. For glyphosate, the Acceptable Daily Intake is based on long term effects in rats. 'The government is also revising the genetically modified organism legislation. This might result in the approval of GM glyphosate resistant (Roundup Ready) crops in New Zealand. 'The use of glyphosate on Roundup Ready crops means higher crop residues, which would necessitate a higher Maximum Residue Level to facilitate trade. The cynic in me wonders if the two proposed legislative changes are linked.'
Associated Press
01-05-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
ABVC BioPharma Announces First Quarter 2025 Financial Results and Strategic Planning for AI-Driven Agricultural Project in Taiwan
SILICON VALLEY, CA - May 1, 2025 ( NEWMEDIAWIRE ) - ABVC BioPharma, Inc. (NASDAQ: ABVC), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing botanical-based therapies for central nervous system, oncology, and ophthalmology indications, today announced its financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025, and shared updates on its strategic plan to explore the development of an AI-enabled agricultural facility in Taiwan. First Quarter 2025 Highlights In the first quarter of 2025, ABVC recognized a parcel of land in central Taiwan valued at $7,670,000 as a strategic asset. The Company is currently assessing the feasibility of developing this site into a state-of-the-art, AI-integrated agricultural facility designed to meet Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) standards. There can be no assurance that the project will be implemented as currently envisioned, or that any future development on the site will be successfully completed. If implemented, the project could leverage local AI capabilities to enable precision-controlled agriculture and contribute to a more sustainable and traceable botanical supply chain. This strategic initiative aligns with ABVC's long-term vision to enhance vertical integration, improve material consistency, and support its future botanical drug pipeline. 'We believe this potential AI-driven agricultural project reflects our forward-looking approach to sustainable pharmaceutical innovation,' said Dr. Uttam Patil, CEO of ABVC BioPharma. 'As we continue to advance our clinical pipeline, we are also taking steps to evaluate infrastructure that could support long-term scalability.' The Company emphasized that the land recognition follows applicable accounting standards and responds to prior disclosures related to asset valuation methodology in the 2024 Form 10-K. Selected Financial Data for Q1 2025 (unaudited): ABVC remains committed to executing its clinical development programs and evaluating strategic infrastructure opportunities to support long-term commercialization and partnership growth. About ABVC BioPharma & Its Industry ABVC BioPharma is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company with an active pipeline of six drugs and one medical device (ABV-1701/Vitargus(R)) under development. For its drug products, the Company utilizes in-licensed technology from its network of world-renowned research institutions to conduct proof-of-concept trials through Phase II of clinical development. The Company's network of research institutions includes Stanford University, University of California at San Francisco, and Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. For Vitargus(R), the Company intends to conduct global clinical trials through Phase III. For more information about ABVC and its subsidiaries, stay updated on the latest updates or visit Visit for more information on BioLite Japan. ABVC urges its shareholders to sign up on the Company's website for the latest news alerts; visit Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains 'forward-looking statements,' including statements regarding the Company's plans to develop an agricultural facility in Taiwan Such statements may be preceded by the words 'intends,' 'may,' 'will,' 'plans,' 'expects,' 'anticipates,' 'projects,' 'predicts,' 'estimates,' 'aims,' 'believes,' 'hopes,' 'potential,' or similar words. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, are based on certain assumptions, and are subject to various known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company's control, and cannot be predicted or quantified, and, consequently, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. None of the outcomes expressed herein are guaranteed. Such risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, risks and uncertainties associated with (i) our inability to manufacture our product candidates on a commercial scale on our own, or in collaboration with third parties; (ii) difficulties in obtaining financing on commercially reasonable terms; (iii) changes in the size and nature of our competition; (iv) loss of one or more key executives or scientists; and (v) difficulties in securing regulatory approval to proceed to the next level of the clinical trials or to market our product candidates. More detailed information about the Company and the risk factors that may affect the realization of forward-looking statements is set forth in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K and its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. Investors are urged to read these documents free of charge on the SEC's website at The Company assumes no obligation to publicly update or revise its forward-looking statements as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell, or the solicitation of an offer to buy any of the Company's securities, nor shall such securities be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from registration, nor shall there be any offer, solicitation or sale of any of the Company's securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of such state or jurisdiction. Contact: Dr. Uttam Patil Email: [email protected]
Daily Express
29-04-2025
- Business
- Daily Express
Utilise government support to meet MSPO demands
Published on: Tuesday, April 29, 2025 Published on: Tue, Apr 29, 2025 By: Azmie Lim Text Size: Chan presenting the MSPO certificate to one of the smallholders LAHAD DATU: The government calls on all smallholders to fully utilise the facilities, incentives and support from both state and federal government which will help the smallholders to grow. Deputy Minister of Plantation and Commodities, Datuk Chan Foong Hin said, the government is committed to assist the smallholders to face the challenges in the palm oil industries including criticism and negative perceptions which have impacted the Malaysian palm oil image and market. He said, to address this matter, the government has introduced the MSPO certification programme through Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB) as a proactive measure to ensure Malaysian palm oil production adheres to sustainable, ethical, and meets the international standards. 'The MSPO programme is part of the government's strategy to engage directly with smallholders, especially in Sabah, providing them with crucial information and support regarding sustainable practices and available incentives. 'The implementation of this programme not only to meet the market demands, but provides benefits to smallholders such as promoting Good Agricultural Practices (GAP), environmental conservation, and improved yields leading to higher incomes,' he said. Chan said this at the Lahad Datu MSPO programme at MPOB Lahad Datu, on Monday. According to Chan, as of March 31, 2025, 97.62 percent of smallholders in Sabah, totalling 30,768 individuals involving 191,204.27 hectares area have successfully obtained MSPO certification. He said, to support and assist the smallholders, the government through MPOB offers assistance covering certification fees, MSPO training, chemical storage solutions, and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to meet the MSPO certificate criteria. The scheme also includes the signage for plantations and financial aid of RM200 for land title amendments. 'All these initiatives aim to ensure compliance with the MSPO standards, thus helping to increase the acceptance and marketability of palm oil produced by smallholders at the international level,' he said. Chan in his speech said, the MPOB has also established the '30 Tonne Club' which establish to recognise the smallholders who achieved annual yield of at least 30 tonne of Fresh Fruit Bunches (FFB) per hectare. To date, 2,772 members have joined nationwide with 488 hailing from Sabah. This is a testament to the potential of smallholders to achieve high productivity through best practice. He said, the government via MPOB will continue to intensify efforts to increase the involvement of smallholders in MSPO. In this regard, all smallholders are urged to update their personal information with MPOB as accurate information is very important for the distribution of assistance and designing programmes that are appropriate to current needs. In the meantime, Chan in his speech also mention the current situation of POIC Lahad Datu, an industrial hub established in 2005 to further bolster the state's palm oil downstream industry. To sustain investment momentum, opportunities in supporting industries as well as the development of new industries beyond the palm oil-based sector are also actively developed at POIC Lahad Datu. He said, a total of 48 companies (39 local, nine foreign) were currently operating in POIC with a total investment value of RM2.386 billion and creating 1,950 job opportunities. POIC Lahad Datu is playing a vital role in boosting the socio-economic landscape of Lahad Datu. 'Covering an area of 4,400 acres, POIC Lahad Datu is equipped with a wide range of modern facilities and support infrastructure, including road networks, electricity and water supply, warehousing, and information and communications technology (ICT) services, with easy access to port facilities to support the overall development of POIC Lahad Datu,' he added. * Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss. * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Jordan Times
11-02-2025
- Business
- Jordan Times
Mercy Corps, Dutch embassy celebrate success of Jordan Hortifuture project
The project aims to strengthen the broader horticulture sector (Photo courtesy of Mercy Corps) AMMAN — Under the patronage of Minister of Agriculture Khaled Hneifat and in the presence of Dutch Ambassador to Jordan Harry Verweij, Mercy Corps held the closing ceremony for the Jordan Hortifuture project. The three-year project was funded by the Dutch embassy to Jordan and implemented through a consortium comprising Mercy Corps, Wageningen University, and 'Advance Consulting,' according to a statement for The Jordan Times. The project aimed to strengthen the broader horticulture sector across the whole value chain and improve the income opportunities and longer-term resilience of smallholder farmers in Balqa, Irbid, Ajloun, and Jordan Valley in Jordan, while including women, and youth. The project was implemented in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture, the National Agricultural Research Centre, the Jordan Cooperative Corporation, the Agricultural Credit Corporation, and the Jordanian Association of Olive Products Exporters. In his opening remarks, Country Director of Mercy Corps Jordan Darius Radcliffe emphasised the importance of cooperation and a shared vision for sustainability, innovation, and resilience in Jordan's agricultural sector. He also said "The project has made remarkable progress in supporting the agricultural sector, with 5,166 farmers receiving Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) training, enabling them to adopt more efficient and sustainable farming methods. As a result of the project's interventions, 65 per cent of participating farmers reported an increase in their income, demonstrating the programme's success in enhancing financial stability and expanding market opportunities. Verweij highlighted the importance of agriculture, saying, 'As a global leader in agriculture, the Netherlands values this vital sector. With 25 per cent of underprivileged households in Jordan relying on it for income, our partnership is crucial. I am confident the programme's impact will endure, strengthening Jordan's position as a sustainable agricultural producer. He added, 'We aim to be a stable and solid partner of Jordan as we know that Jordan strives to be the same to us, the Netherlands, and to the international community at large. We know we may count on Jordan to give that friendship to the Dutch.' Hneifat stressed that the project represents an outstanding model of cooperation and partnership in the agricultural and food security sectors. He expressed his gratitude to all those involved in its implementation and hoped to see more similar initiatives in the future. The closing ceremony was attended by representatives of the consortium members, project partners and stakeholders from various ministries, government entities, public and private sector institutions, and international organisations involved in the project's implementation. The event included comprehensive presentations and videos on the project's key objectives and success stories from beneficiaries. At the end of the ceremony, the project's donor, consortium members, and key partners who contributed to its success were honoured. The event also featured a bazaar, where a group of beneficiary farmers displayed a diverse range of their agricultural products, the statement said.
