Question about harmful residues?

📊 Testing and Analytics
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My farm uses this product — Emamectin benzoate. Does it comply with GACP standards, and specifically, would it pass a COA test?

We are primarily concerned about whether it leaves heavy metals, pesticide residues, or other harmful substances. If the COA test fails, the entire harvest may be unsellable for export.

I hope those with experience can provide some guidance. Thank you!

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2

Emamectin benzoate is a semi-synthetic insecticide in the avermectin group, derived from a fermentation product of the bacterium Streptomyces avermitilis and prepared as the benzoate salt. It is used mainly against caterpillars (such as armyworms, bollworms and diamondback moth), and in Thailand also against thrips and leafminers. It is not a reliable spider-mite product: IR-4 trials in the US rated its spider-mite control as poor.

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So, is Emamectin benzoate compatible with GACP standards?

→ It can be used, but must strictly comply with the conditions of GACP-WHO, specifically as follows:

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GACP (Good Agricultural and Collection Practices for Medicinal Plants) standards require:

  1. Only plant protection products permitted in that country may be used
  • Emamectin benzoate has been registered and approved for use in many countries, including Thailand.
  1. Pesticides must be used at the right dosage, at the right time, and in the right way
  • Compliance with the pre-harvest interval is necessary to avoid active ingredient residues.
  1. Priority should be given to pesticides of biological origin or low toxicity
  • Emamectin benzoate comes from a natural fermentation product but is chemically modified, and Thailand registers it as a hazardous agricultural substance. Treat it as a conventional pesticide under GACP: use only registered products, at label rates, and observe the pre-harvest interval.
  1. Full records of usage must be kept in the cultivation log
  • Date of spraying, quantity used, batch code, product name, person performing the application, etc.

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Important notes when using Emamectin benzoate in GACP:

Criteria Recommendation
:white_check_mark: Permitted for use Yes, if the product is registered in the country where it is used (in Thailand, with the Department of Agriculture)
:warning: Clear specification of pre-harvest interval Example: 7–14 days before harvest
:receipt: Recording in the GACP cultivation log Mandatory
:cross_mark: Do not overdose / use for the wrong purpose Otherwise, it will be considered a GACP violation
:magnifying_glass_tilted_left: Must be in the list approved by the GACP auditor (if applicable) Prepare a list of permitted active ingredients before the audit

:white_check_mark: Conclusion:

Emamectin benzoate can be used in GACP-certified cultivation, provided that:

  • The product has a legal registration certificate
  • The pre-harvest interval is strictly followed
  • Full records are kept in the cultivation log
  • It is used exactly according to technical instructions and dosage

If you need:

  • A template for a GACP pesticide usage log
  • A certificate of pesticide registration in Thailand
  • A list of active ingredients accepted under GACP