What are the specific regulations for seed treatments?

Seed treatment is a means of protecting seedlings from certain diseases or insect pests. The use of plant protection products is part of seed treatment. But what are the specific regulations for seed treatments?

The effects of the Ecophyto plan on seed treatment

The Ecophyto plan has its origins in the Grenelle Environment Round Table. The aim of this concept is to halve the use of phytosanitary products that are harmful to the environment and human health. Among these products to be eliminated or reduced are industrial pesticides. In seed treatments, France has adopted several European directives with the aim of halving the use of products incompatible with sustainable development in the agricultural sector. Thus, the national action plan Ecophyto was set up to combat the use of dangerous pesticides, particularly for bees. Reinforced controls have been put in place to detect the most dangerous products for the environment.

Specific regulations on the marketing of seeds

In order to be sold on French or European Union territory, seeds must be subject to product certification. Certification is the responsibility of each EU Member State. Several conditions are required to obtain product certification. Firstly, the identity of the seed for which certification is requested must be verifiable. Secondly, the seed contained in a bag must be of the same species, i.e. be pure. In addition, the germination of the seed must be of very good quality. Finally, in order to be certified and authorised for marketing in the EU, the seed must meet specific health standards, such as the absence of pests or diseases dangerous to humans.

Other specific regulations on seed treatments

Firstly, already treated seed cannot be mixed with untreated seed. With regard to the regulation of seed distributors, the latter must be authorised by the competent authorities, in this case the Ministry of Agriculture. The illegal practice of selling seed is punishable by criminal prosecution. It should be noted that only seeds whose treatment has been approved in France may be sold on the market. In some countries of the European Union, specific regulations have been put in place for organic seed. These regulations require farmers to produce seed in accordance with state regulations. In France, it is the regulations resulting from the Grenelle Environment Round Table that regulate the issue. In conclusion, seed processing is a crucial stage that requires specific and diverse regulation from production to marketing.