Spinach-Protein Virus Gets EPA Nod to Battle Citrus Blight
Published Date: 4/7/2026
Rule
Summary
The EPA just gave a green light to a special Citrus Tristeza Virus (CTV) that carries spinach proteins to protect citrus crops, meaning no strict residue limits are needed on citrus fruits or feed. Farmers, food makers, and pesticide companies can now use this virus safely starting April 7, 2026, saving time and money on extra testing. If anyone wants to object, they have until June 8, 2026, to speak up.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
No Residue Limits for CTV-SoD2 on Citrus
EPA established an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance for residues of Citrus tristeza virus (CTV) strain T36 expressing Spinach Defensin Proteins SoD2, SoD2-1, and SoD2* in or on citrus, effective April 7, 2026. This eliminates the need to establish a numerical maximum residue level and, according to the rule, removes the requirement for an analytical enforcement method — saving farmers, food manufacturers, and pesticide companies time and money on extra residue testing when used according to label directions and good agricultural practices.
EPA Finds CTV-SoD2 Variants Safe for People
EPA concluded there is a reasonable certainty that no harm will result to the U.S. population, including infants and children, from aggregate exposure to residues of the CTV strain T36 expressing SoD2, SoD2-1, and SoD2* when used according to the label. The agency notes an acute oral LD50 > 5000 mg/kg in female mice for microbial-produced SoD2, rapid digestion in simulated intestinal fluid, and that an additional 10X safety factor for infants and children was not needed based on available data.
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Key Dates
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