French ban on copper fungicides puts organic vintners under strain

French organic winegrowers face fresh challenges after the country’s food safety authority, Anses, refused to renew approval for 20 copper-based fungicides. The decision, first reported by wein.plus, has left many producers concerned about how they will combat downy mildew.

Major products removed

The ban affects all powder preparations, including well-known products such as Kocide 2000 and Kocide Flow. Only two products – Champ Flo Ampli and Héliocuivre – remain authorised, but under much tighter restrictions.

Anses justified its move by citing health risks for vineyard workers. The authority stated: “The available data do not allow for the exclusion of a risk of harmful effects for users.” It also said manufacturers had failed to provide sufficient safety data: “It is the responsibility of the distributor to demonstrate the absence of an unacceptable risk when using the product.”

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