The EU authorisation for Bentazone herbicide, which expires on 30 June 2017, should not be renewed MEPs decided on Wednesday.

The European Parliament passed a non-binding resolution, which states that the herbicide’s safety has yet to be established. The resolution points out that Bentazone can easily leak directly into groundwater and is suspected of interfering with human reproduction.

Bentazone is an active substance, manufactured by German agchem giant BASF, which acts as a selective post-emergent herbicide against broadleaved weeds.

Despite the Parliament’s concerns, the EU Commission has proposed to renew Bentazone’s EU authorisation until 31 January 2032 (the maximum period possible) while simultaneously requesting more data on its safety.

MEPs contested this proposal, pointing out that Bentazone’s consumer risk assessment has not been finalised and that data are missing, particularly on its potential for groundwater exposure. A European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) peer review has also proposed classifying Bentazone as having suspected reproductive toxicity potential for humans (category 2).

The resolution was approved by 361 votes to 289, with 28 abstentions, the Parliament’s resolution demands that the Commission receives and assess the missing safety information before deciding whether to renew authorisation of the herbicide.