Federal Register #2026-10711

EPA Final Rule: Propylene Oxide Residue Tolerances for Dried Spices and Seeds

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued a final rule establishing tolerances for propylene oxide (PPO) residues in specific dried spices and seeds: - Government Buyer: - Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) - Office of Pesticide Programs, Registration Division - OEMs and Vendors: - ABERCO, Inc., a Balchem Company (petitioner for the rule) - Products/Commodities Affected: - Dried ginger - Dried bell pepper - Dried nonbell pepper - Sesame seed - Dried turmeric roots - All with a tolerance of 300 parts per million (ppm) for PPO residues - Notable Requirements: - Tolerances specifically exclude propylene chlorohydrin (PCH) residues - Applies to agricultural producers, food manufacturers, and pesticide manufacturers - The EPA determined aggregate exposure to PPO residues is safe for the general population, including infants and children - This is a regulatory action, not a procurement or purchase request

Description

This regulation establishes tolerances for residues of propylene oxide (PPO) in or on sesame seed, turmeric roots dried, ginger dried, pepper bell dried, and pepper nonbell dried. The regulation is issued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and is effective May 29, 2026. Objections and requests for hearings must be received by July 28, 2026, and filed in accordance with 40 CFR part 178. The rule applies to agricultural producers, food manufacturers, and pesticide manufacturers.

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