Government Greenlights Mystery Bacteria for Seed Pesticides, No Limits
Published Date: 2/25/2025
Rule
Summary
The EPA just gave a green light to Bacillus thuringiensis strain EX 297512 as a safe ingredient in pesticides used for seed treatments. This means farmers, food makers, and pesticide companies don’t have to worry about strict residue limits for this bacteria anymore. The new rule kicks in on February 25, 2025, making pesticide use smoother and possibly saving money on testing and compliance.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
No-tolerance rule for a Bt ingredient
EPA established an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance for residues of Bacillus thuringiensis strain EX 297512 when used as an inert ingredient (diluent and/or carrier) in pesticide formulations applied for seed treatment only. The exemption is added to Table 1 of 40 CFR 180.920 and requires the inert ingredient to meet the specifications in 40 CFR 180.1011(a)(1)-(4). This regulation is effective February 25, 2025.
EPA found EX 297512 safe for public exposure
EPA concluded there are no toxicological endpoints of concern for Bacillus thuringiensis strain EX 297512 and determined there is a reasonable certainty of no harm to the general population, including infants and children. Because no numerical tolerance is set, EPA stated an analytical enforcement method is not required for this exemption.
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