Federal Register #2026-14114

EPA Grants Tolerance Exemptions for EcoPhage Bacteriophage Pesticide Ingredients

This regulatory notice from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) addresses new pesticide tolerance exemptions: - Government Buyer: - Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Office of Pesticide Programs - OEM/Vendor: - EcoPhage Ltd. (developer of the bacteriophage active ingredients) - Products/Active Ingredients: - Bacteriophage active against Xanthomonas campestris pv. vesicatoria (EcoPhage) - Part number: 180.1426 - Exemption applies to all food and feed commodities - Bacteriophage active against Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato (EcoPhage) - Part number: 180.1427 - Exemption applies to all food and feed commodities - Notable Requirements/Details: - EPA determined these bacteriophages pose no harm to humans, including infants and children - Exemptions eliminate the need for maximum residue levels when used according to label directions and good agricultural practices - No specific procurement, purchase quantities, or product orders are included; this is a regulatory action, not a solicitation

Description

This regulation establishes exemptions from the requirement of a tolerance for residues of Bacteriophage active against Xanthomonas campestris pv. vesicatoria and Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato in or on all food or feed commodities. The rule is effective on July 14, 2026, with objections due by September 14, 2026. The regulation eliminates the need to establish a maximum permissible level for residues of these pesticides when used according to the exemptions. The EPA evaluated toxicological and exposure data and determined there is a reasonable certainty of no harm from aggregate exposure to these bacteriophages.

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