EPA OKs Super Bacteria on Your Food – No Residue Rules Needed
Published Date: 10/31/2025
Rule
Summary
The EPA just gave a green light to Priestia megaterium strain SYM36613, meaning farmers can use it on food without worrying about residue limits. This change helps companies like Indigo Ag, Inc. by removing extra rules and saves time and money on testing. The new rule kicks in on October 31, 2025, but if anyone has concerns, they have until December 30, 2025, to speak up.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Tolerance Exemption for a Biopesticide
EPA established an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance for residues of Priestia megaterium strain SYM36613 on all food commodities when used according to label directions and good agricultural practices. This means growers can use products containing this strain on food without a numeric maximum residue limit starting October 31, 2025.
No Analytical Enforcement Method Needed
EPA says an analytical enforcement method is not required for Priestia megaterium strain SYM36613 because the agency is granting a tolerance exemption without any numerical limit. Pesticide makers and testers will not need to provide or use a residue test method for enforcement of this exemption.
EPA Found No Human Health Risks
EPA evaluated toxicology and exposure data and concluded Priestia megaterium strain SYM36613 is not expected to be toxic, pathogenic, or infective, and that there is a reasonable certainty of no harm to the U.S. population including infants and children from aggregate exposure. EPA also determined no extra safety margin for infants and children is needed.
Petitioner (Indigo Ag) Gains Regulatory Relief
Indigo Ag, Inc. submitted the petition that led to this exemption. The final rule eliminates the need to set a maximum residue level for the petitioned strain, which the summary notes helps companies like Indigo Ag by removing extra rules and saving testing time and money.
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