In some great news for our health, EU Member States have voted to ban Mancozeb, a fungicide that is known to be an endocrine disruptor and toxic to reproduction.

Mancozeb is commonly used in the production of a range of crops including onions, potatoes, flower bulbs and some fruits, to protect against various fungi. However, it has been linked to several serious health concerns.

The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has classified Mancozeb as being toxic to reproduction, while the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has identified it as an endocrine disruptor. Read more about Mancozeb in this factsheet from the Pesticide Action Network (PAN) Europe.

Endocrine disruptors can interfere with the body’s sensitive hormone messaging system in several ways, including blocking hormones from doing their job or mimicking the body’s natural hormones. They have been linked to a wide range of health concerns. Read more about endocrine disruptors on our website.

In October 2020 EU Member States voted not to renew the license for the use of Mancozeb, which is due to end in January 2021. As a result, Mancozeb will be banned in the EU from February 2021.

Other pesticides in use today may also have endocrine disrupting properties, but there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of exposure them. See our website for more information on harmful chemicals in food and food packaging.

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