Federal Register #2026-10267

EPA Exempts Aluminum as Seed Treatment Colorant in Pesticide Formulations

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued a regulatory exemption for aluminum used as a seed treatment colorant in pesticide formulations: - Government Buyer: - Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) - Office of Pesticide Programs, Registration Division - OEMs and Vendors: - Sun Chemical (petitioning manufacturer) - Aluminum (CAS Reg. No. 7429-90-5) as the primary substance - Products/Services Requested: - No procurement or solicitation; the rule establishes an exemption for aluminum as an inert ingredient - Aluminum (seed treatment colorant), CAS Reg. No. 7429-90-5 - Usage limited to not more than 5% by weight in pesticide formulations for occupational seed treatment - Unique/Notable Requirements: - Exemption applies only to aluminum used as a seed treatment colorant in occupational settings - Safety confirmed through toxicological and aggregate exposure assessments - No acute or chronic risk expected for the general population or children - Places of Performance/Delivery: - EPA Headquarters, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC - No specific products, part numbers, or purchase quantities are requested; this is a regulatory action, not a procurement opportunity.

Description

This regulation establishes an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance for residues of aluminum (CAS Reg. No. 7429-90-5) when used as an inert ingredient (seed treatment colorant) for seed treatment only at not more than 5% of pesticide formulation. The exemption is issued by the Environmental Protection Agency under section 408 of the FFDCA. The rule is effective May 22, 2026, and objections or requests for hearings must be submitted by July 21, 2026. The exemption applies to agricultural producers, food manufacturers, and pesticide manufacturers involved in crop production, animal production, food manufacturing, and pesticide manufacturing.

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