Radish greens have gained popularity as a culinary specialty over the past few years, appearing in a wide range of recipes from salads to garnishes. However, the regulatory framework surrounding the maximum residue levels (MRLs) for radish and radish greens has created significant challenges for producers and the agricultural industry. Initially, in 2018, radish and radish greens were classified under the same MRLs as kale, a decision that created confusion in practice due to the differing agricultural treatments for the two crops. This discrepancy led to concerns from various industry groups, including the German Fruit Trade Association (DFHV), who successfully lobbied to delay the implementation of MRLs for radish greens.
As a result, the MRLs for radish and radish greens were suspended until the end of 2024, giving time for field trials to determine the most appropriate reference crop for these leafy greens. These trials were completed in early 2024, and the findings led to a major shift in classification. The European Union’s proposed regulation, finalized in April 2024, officially reclassified radish greens as “small radish leaves” under the subgroup of arugula, aligning their MRLs with those of arugula, starting in 2025.
This regulatory change marks a significant milestone for the radish greens market, providing clearer guidelines for producers and exporters. The new classification under arugula means that from 2025 onwards, the same residue limits that apply to arugula will now govern radish greens. This alignment is expected to streamline the market for radish greens in the EU and ensure consistent safety standards across similar crops.
The transition also highlights the importance of adapting regulatory practices to evolving agricultural trends, as specialty crops like radish greens gain traction among consumers. For producers, this change could simplify compliance and offer more market opportunities, as radish greens are increasingly recognized as a valuable ingredient in modern cuisine.
The reclassification of radish greens under arugula’s MRLs is a positive development for the industry, offering much-needed clarity for producers, regulators, and consumers alike. As the market for specialty crops like radish greens continues to grow, this change will help facilitate smoother trade and provide a more consistent regulatory environment. Producers should now be prepared for the new standards coming into effect in 2025, ensuring they stay compliant and competitive in the expanding European market for fresh greens.
