A new mobile phone app designed to help growers manage chemical applications and facilitate trade has been released by Berries Australia.

The Berries Australia MRLs App provides information on maximum residue limits (MRLs) and withholding periods (WHPs) for both domestic and export markets.  The easy-to-use interface provides users with access to real-time pre and post-harvest chemical application data based on domestic and export market, target pest or disease and/or active constituents. And with its offline capability, the app can be used anywhere and anytime.

The BA MRLs app has been designed and developed by the AWRI, Berries Australia and ATGA, with funding via the Agriculture Victoria “Food to Market” and Federal Government PASE funding to help industry members comply with MRLs in export markets. Changes in MRLs and WHP recommendations will be updated as new information becomes available to ensure that the data provided is kept up to date.

Why do we need an App for MRLs in export markets?

MRLs in export markets may differ from Australia.

If the MRL in an export market is higher than the Australian MRL, then exporters do not need to change their practices to be compliant with that market’s regulations. If the MRL is lower than the Australian MRL, then exporters must modify how they manage their production in blocks destined for export. In some circumstances, the MRL may be so low that it is not possible to use particular chemicals and growers need to be mindful of this in advance of committing fruit to export markets.

Berries Australia has developed the MRL app to help growers check if an export market MRL is higher or lower than Australia. The MRL app compiles information published by a wide range of countries and is the best available data at a point in time. Exporters are encouraged to speak to their importer for confirmation as they should be able to clarify any particulars relating to your specific product.

Breaching another country’s MRLs represents a serious export non-compliance. If detected upon arrival, the consequence may be the rejection of the consignment (at the exporters’ cost) or possibly broader, commodity-wide ramifications such as the closure of market access.

The Berries Australia MRL App is now available to download for free on Apple and Android devices.

Apple App store – CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD

Google Play store – CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD

The Berries MRLs app is restricted for download in Australian app stores and users must have a login account to use the app.

User accounts are only available to berry industry members. After installing the app on a device, select Register > and follow the prompts.  Once approved, you will receive a confirmation email with a temporary password.  Open the app and enter your registered email address then follow the prompts to set up your secure password.

If you need any assistance to access the App, please contact Jen Rowling   |   jenrowling@berries.net.au   |   0448 322 389