Rice Byproduct Wax Dodges Pesticide Limits in EPA Move
Published Date: 2/13/2026
Rule
Summary
The EPA just made it official: rice bran wax can be used safely in pesticides without setting a strict residue limit. This change helps farmers, food makers, and pesticide producers by cutting red tape and speeding up product use starting February 13, 2026. No extra costs or delays—just smoother, safer pesticide formulations for crops, animals, and food equipment.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Tolerance Exemption for Rice Bran Wax
Effective February 13, 2026, the EPA exempts rice bran wax (CAS 8016-60-2) from the requirement of a tolerance when used as an inert ingredient lubricant on growing crops and raw agricultural commodities pre- and post-harvest, when applied to animals, and when used in antimicrobial food-contact formulations (public eating places, dairy-processing, and food-processing equipment). This exemption removes the need to set a maximum permissible residue level for those uses.
No Numerical Limit or Testing Required
The rule states there is 'None' listed under Limits for rice bran wax and that an analytical enforcement method is not required for enforcement purposes because the Agency is establishing an exemption without any numerical limitation. This can reduce testing and enforcement burden for pesticide formulators and food processors starting February 13, 2026.
EPA Finds Rice Bran Wax Safe for Consumers
EPA concluded there are no toxicological endpoints of concern for rice bran wax and determined 'there is a reasonable certainty that no harm will result to the general population, or to infants and children' from aggregate exposure. This determination supports the exemption effective February 13, 2026.
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