Chemical residue resources
Agriculture Victoria has a number of resources that can be helpful when managing chemical residues in primary produce. The following information can be used as a guide when:
- taking samples for residue analysis
- observing withholding periods
- managing cross-contamination from farm infrastructure
- avoiding crop damage from residual herbicides.
Chemical residue guidelines
Managing chemical residues in crops and produce
Chemicals play an important role in agriculture. Growers should be mindful of consumers increasing concerns about chemical residues in produce.
Read moreManaging chemical cross-contamination risks
Cross contamination can occur when harvested grain comes into contact with treated seed and surfaces of storage and transport infrastructure
Read moreManaging the risk of chemical cross-contamination in horticulture
Cross contamination most commonly occurs during handling and storage of fresh produce after it has been harvested.
Read moreWithholding period statements on labels
A withholding period (WHP) can be defined as the minimum period of time that must elapse between the last application of an agricultural or veterinary (agvet) chemical product, and the ‘use’ of the agricultural produce to which the chemical was applied.
Read moreAvoiding crop damage from residual herbicides
When researching the residual activity and cropping restrictions following herbicide application, the herbicide label is the primary source of information and should be readthoroughly.
Read moreSampling soils, vegetables, fruit and grain for residue testing
These guidelines aim to provide the information necessary to allow you to take a representative sample that can be sent to National Association for Testing Authorities (NATA) accredited laboratories for testing.
Read moreSampling bees for residue testing
Information about how to take samples of bees for residue testing.
Read more