VKM concludes that several of the toxic effects observed in experimental studies are relevant to humans, and that Luna Privilege’s active ingredient has potential for contamination of groundwater.

Luna Privilege is a new fungicide in Norway intended for use in apples, pears, strawberries, lettuce, peas, beans and tomatoes.

Luna Privilege contains the new active substance fluopyram.

Risk assessment

The current assessment is based on documentation given by the applicant, independent scientific literature and recognized methodology. The Norwegian Food Safety Authority uses the assessment when evaluating the application for authorisation of Luna Privilege in Norway.

VKM concludes that the observed induction of tumours in experimental studies with the active ingredient fluopyram on rats and mice, and effects on foetal development in rats and rabbits are of relevance when assessing human health risk.

Furthermore, VKM is of the opinion that the active ingredient and its metabolite possess a considerable risk for groundwater contamination. VKM also points to enhanced risk for toxic effects in birds following the use of Luna Privilege in some crops.