DPI&F Biosecurity Queensland district inspector and regional program leader for Chemical Use and Food Safety, Mary O’Brien, said agricultural chemical products, used to treat stored grain, might result in chemical residues if not used in accordance with label instructions.

“We urge anyone using chemical treatments to read the label carefully and comply with all requirements, such as withholding periods,” Ms O’Brien said.

“Chemical residues create a risk to human and animal health and may be detrimental to export markets.”

National and international markets are increasingly sensitive to residues.

Ms O’Brien said responsible chemical use and compliance with label instruction include:

• Clean silos thoroughly before storing grain.

• Reduce blending of grains which have had different treatments.

• Before treating grain, check insect numbers and refer to CVD for any previous treatments.

“It is important to ensure any chemical being used is registered for use on that commodity and for that situation,” Ms O’Brien said.

“For instance, chemical sprays for stored grains are not registered for use on pulses and oilseeds.

“Penalties for the misuse of agricultural chemicals may be up to $45,000.”

Queensland has a reputation for high-quality, clean and healthy food production.

To safeguard this reputation, DPI&F regulates the use of pesticides and veterinary medicines, and monitors plant and animal produce for chemical residues and contaminants.

Part of this work involves inspectors collecting samples of cereal grains and seeds at storage depots.

For more information, refer to the “Agricultural Chemical Users' Manual” or “Grain storage - Insect control in stored grain” on the DPI&F web site www.dpi.qld.gov.au