Support in Expanding the List of Microorganisms for the Use as Plant Biostimulants
Support in Expanding the List of Microorganisms for the Use as Plant Biostimulants
On Wednesday September 16th, 2026, Kerona Scientific hosted its 4th Virtual Dublin FPR Symposium. This annual event provides the fertiliser industry with an opportunity to catch up with what’s happening from a regulatory viewpoint and keep up to date with the latest developments. Amongst the presentations, one of the highlights came from Dr. Evelyn Hackl (Scientist & Grant Application Expert, Austrian Institute of Technology GmbH) who shared insights from AIT’s technical study (commissioned by DG GROW) to develop a scientifically robust assessment methodology that could support the inclusion of additional microorganisms (CMC 7) while maintaining high standards of safety, efficacy and environmental protection under the FPR.
The proposed framework consists of three modules covering significant internal trade potential, microbial risk assessment, and agronomic efficiency. A proof-of-concept exercise evaluated 29 microbial candidate strains using this approach. Dr. Hackl noted that both the trade assessment and agronomic efficiency evaluations were generally straightforward, while the risk assessment module proved the most challenging due to data quality issues and the complexity of some safety considerations.
A key message from the presentation was that successful future expansion of CMC 7 will depend on three pillars: a solid scientific foundation, an innovation-focused assessment process, and user-friendly procedures for applicants. Modern bioinformatics tools, accurate taxonomic classification and, in some cases, whole genome sequencing were highlighted as essential components for robust decision-making. The study also recognised the importance of stakeholder engagement, confidentiality, and clear guidance to encourage innovation while maintaining regulatory confidence.
The study is now approaching its final reporting stage and represents an important step towards enabling a broader range of microbial biostimulants to access the EU market. For companies developing novel microbial technologies, the study offers valuable insight into the future direction of CMC 7 assessment and the evidence likely to be required to support new microbial based fertilising products.
If you missed the Dublin FPR Symposium, please contact Kerona if you wish to obtain a copy of the presentations. For assistance with the regulation of fertilising products in the EU and UK the Kerona Regulatory team can be contacted at info@kerona.ie