Approval studies for plant protection products are science-based
The approval of plant protection products in Switzerland is subject to strict legal requirements. Ultimately, this approval process is based on scientifically sound studies. These studies are financed by manufacturers, but they must comply with clearly defined governmental requirements and controls. The aim is to ensure reliability and independence.
Wednesday, October 22, 2025
According to the Ordinance on the Placing on the Market of Plant Protection Products (Plant Protection Products Ordinance, PPP Ordinance), applicants must submit comprehensive data on the product’s efficacy, toxicology, ecotoxicology, and environmental behaviour. These data are used to ensure safety for humans, animals, and the environment according to the latest scientific standards. The studies must be conducted using recognised scientific methods and in accordance with the principles of Good Laboratory Practice.
Independence and verifiability
Although the studies are funded by industry, this does not mean they are not independent. On the contrary, the results are reviewed by government authorities such as the Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office (FSVO) and the Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN). These authorities critically assess the submitted data and can request additional information or studies to verify the safety of the product.
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Independence is ensured through these controls. And, as with scientific studies in general, it is essential that the results are verifiable. This means the findings of approval studies must be transparent, traceable, and thus reproducible at any time. Authorities regularly publish reports on approved plant protection products and the underlying assessments. This enables the public and the scientific community to understand — and, if necessary, challenge — the decisions made.
Criticism and trust
Environmental organisations occasionally express concerns about the independence of industry-funded studies. However, this criticism contrasts with the way these same organisations use scientific studies in their own communications. On swiss-food.ch, we have highlighted cases where environmental organisations have misused scientific research. Strict legal requirements and independent government reviews ensure a high degree of reliability and safety in plant protection product approval studies. Compliance with internationally recognised standards and the transparency of procedures help build trust in the approval process.
In summary, the requirements for approval studies of plant protection products in Switzerland are stringent. Through rigorous controls and independent reviews, they ensure the safety and reliability of these products. Despite being funded by industry, the legal framework guarantees that the studies remain objective and scientifically robust.
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