(1)

Commission Regulation (EU) 2023/915 (2) sets maximum levels for certain contaminants, including ergot sclerotia and ergot alkaloids, in food.

(2)

Lower maximum levels for ergot sclerotia in unprocessed rye grains and ergot alkaloids in milling products of barley, wheat, spelt and oats (with an ash content lower than 900 mg/100 g dry matter), rye milling products and rye placed on the market for the final consumer are to apply from 1 July 2024 pursuant to points 1.8.1.2, 1.8.2.1 and 1.8.2.3 of the table in Annex I to Regulation (EU) 2023/915.

(3)

The Commission consulted Member States and interested parties in order to monitor progression towards those lower maximum levels and to assess those levels in the light of changes in agricultural practices, as well as in climatic and environmental factors.

(4)

Following a detailed examination of the information provided, it is concluded that the lower maximum levels are not yet achievable for ergot sclerotia in unprocessed rye grains and for ergot alkaloids in milling products of wheat (with an ash content lower than 900 mg/100 g dry matter), rye milling products and rye placed on the market for the final consumer because of an increase in the prevalence of ergot sclerotia and ergot alkaloids in cereals due to climatic conditions.

(5)

It is therefore appropriate to defer the application of the lower maximum levels for ergot sclerotia in unprocessed rye grains for 1 year and for ergot alkaloids in milling products of wheat (with an ash content lower than 900 mg/100 g dry matter), rye milling products and rye placed on the market for the final consumer for 4 years.

(6)

In order to allow for a smooth transition and not disrupt the trade of food from cereals harvested before the dates on which the lower maximum levels apply, food lawfully placed on the market before those dates, compliant with the maximum levels applicable at the time of placing on the market, should be allowed to remain on the market until their date of minimum durability or use-by date.

(7)

Regulation (EU) 2023/915 should therefore be amended accordingly.

(8)

The measures provided for in this Regulation are in accordance with the opinion of the Standing Committee on Plants, Animals, Food and Feed,

(1)

Article 10(1) is amended as follows:

(2)

Annex I is amended in accordance with the Annex to this Regulation.