Avadex Factor authorized for winter barley

From the end of September until January, cereal producers are authorized to use Avadex Factor on winter barley crops. This herbicide, based on triallate, has not been approved by health agencies due to its risks to water sources.

Legal challenge planned

On October 26, the associations Générations Futures and France Nature Environnement will argue before the Melun court to request the suspension of this emergency derogation, which they consider to be misused.

Ministry of Agriculture authorization

Despite all herbicides based on triallate being removed from the market in 2023, the Ministry of Agriculture authorized Avadex Factor for a maximum period of 120 days for winter barley crops. The National Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health Safety (Anses) had refused twice, in 2018 and 2023, to authorize this triallate-based herbicide, citing insufficient data to exclude health risks or groundwater contamination.

Triallate's European status

Triallate remains authorized in Europe, but "it is authorized only in six countries," says Pauline Cervan, a toxicologist at Générations Futures, in an interview with La Relève et La Peste. She notes that the argument of competition with other European countries does not hold.

Health concerns over triallate

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) warned in 2020 about the potential genotoxic effect of triallate, which can alter DNA and induce mutations. Pauline Cervan considers this genotoxic effect the most concerning, as it is a carcinogenic mechanism of action.

Lack of animal testing

These genotoxic properties have been observed at the cellular level, but no tests on animals have been conducted to confirm or deny this risk. In the context of the renewal procedure for triallate-based products at the European level, the Netherlands proposed to classify triallate as a mutagen and carcinogen, a decision that dates back to April 2026.

Ministry's justification

The Ministry of Agriculture authorized the use of Avadex Factor from September 23 to January 21, citing difficulties in managing weeds on winter barley crops and a lack of alternatives for controlling the phytosanitary situation.

Environmental safeguards

Cereal producers are required to implement "management measures," including establishing no-treatment zones of 20 meters between fields and aquatic environments or residences. However, Pauline Cervan notes that these areas are not defined in the majority of water supply sources, limiting the effectiveness of this safeguard.

Legal arguments against the decision

Générations Futures and France Nature Environnement argue that the decision by the Ministry of Agriculture does not respect the conditions of the emergency derogation. The procedure is supposed to be authorized only in cases of serious and exceptional danger that cannot be controlled by other means.

Lack of time for contestation

The lawyer for France Nature Environnement, Pia Savart, points out that the decision was made on September 22, with an entry into force the following day, leaving little time for contestation. She notes that the situation involves common weeds, not serious threats.

Potential legal precedent

In addition to the emergency appeal, a "substance" appeal has been filed, allowing for a more thorough examination of the request. These appeals are essential for the future, as they could create a legal precedent if the product is authorized again next year.

Public involvement

To warn neighbors about pesticide spraying, individuals can sign the petition by Générations Futures published on the La Relève et La Peste website. The legal battle will be resolved in the coming weeks.