Federal Register #EPAHQOPP20240329

EPA Grants Tolerance Exemptions for EcoPhage Bacteriophage Pesticides in Food and Feed

This EPA final rule concerns the regulatory status of certain bacteriophage pesticides in food and feed commodities: - Government Buyer: - Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) - OEMs and Vendors: - EcoPhage Ltd. (only OEM mentioned) - Products/Services Requested: - No products, part numbers, or purchase quantities are being requested - The rule establishes tolerance exemptions for: - Bacteriophage active against Xanthomonas campestris pv. vesicatoria_EcoPhage - Bacteriophage active against Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato_EcoPhage - Unique or Notable Requirements: - Applies to all food and feed commodities - No maximum permissible residue levels required for these bacteriophages when used according to label directions and good agricultural practices - EPA determined these bacteriophages are not toxic, pathogenic, or infective to humans, including infants and children - No procurement, acquisition, or purchase is being solicited

Description

This regulation establishes exemptions from the requirement of a tolerance for residues of Bacteriophage active against Xanthomonas campestris pv. vesicatoria_EcoPhage and Bacteriophage active against Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato_EcoPhage in or on all food or feed commodities. EcoPhage Ltd. submitted a petition to the EPA requesting these exemptions under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. The regulation eliminates the need to establish a maximum permissible level for residues of these pesticides when used according to the terms of the exemptions. The EPA determined that these bacteriophages are not toxic, pathogenic, or infective to humans and pose no risk to infants and children. The rule is effective July 14, 2026, with objections due by September 14, 2026.

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