(fra kommisjonsforordningen)

(1) Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/808 (2) lays down rules on the performance of analytical methods for residues of pharmacologically active substances used in food-producing animals, in the frame of national plans, as defined in Article 3 of Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2022/1646 (3), the interpretation of results and on the methods to be used for sampling.

(2) Methods of sampling for feed are defined in Annex I to Commission Regulation (EC) No 152/2009 (4). Since samples of feed can also be taken in the frame of national control plans, as defined in Article 3 of Implementing Regulation (EU) 2022/1646, as regards the use of pharmacologically active substances, the sampling of feed in the context of Regulation (EU) 2021/808 should be performed in accordance with the rules laid down in that Annex. Since that Annex does not establish detailed requirements for reporting on sampling procedures and for transport and storage of the samples, and those requirements are necessary for performing the official controls of pharmacologically active substances and residues thereof in feed, the rules set out in points 5 to 7 of Annex II to Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/808 should apply for feed.

(3) The transitional period after which all analytical methods used for official controls of pharmacologically active substances and residues thereof must fulfil the requirements set out in Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/808, is to expire on 10 June 2026.

(4) Based on the progress reported by the Member States, more time is needed to revalidate some analytical methods. Many National Reference Laboratories and official control laboratories will not have completed revalidation of all methods for all matrices by June 2026, despite efforts made over the past four years. Therefore, the transitional period should be extended to 31 December 2027.

(5) Annex II to Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/808 requires a sample size of at least 12 eggs, depending on the analytical methods used. Since one ostrich egg, which can weigh 1-1,5 kg, is equivalent in weight to 24 hen eggs, one ostrich egg is considered an appropriate sample quantity. Therefore, it is necessary to specify the sampling size for ostrich eggs in that Annex.

(6) Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/808 should therefore be amended accordingly.

(7) The measures provided for in this Regulation are in accordance with the opinion of the Standing Committee on Plants, Animals, Food and Feed,