EPA Approves Virus Spray to Save Tomatoes and Peppers
Published Date: 7/14/2026
Rule
Summary
Farmers and food makers can now use two special EcoPhage bacteriophages to fight plant diseases without worrying about pesticide residue limits. Starting July 14, 2026, these natural virus-based treatments don’t need a tolerance level set by the EPA, making it easier and cheaper to protect crops. If anyone has concerns, they have until September 14, 2026, to speak up.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
No Tolerance Required for Two EcoPhage Products
As of July 14, 2026, the EPA established exemptions from the requirement of a pesticide tolerance for residues of Bacteriophage active against Xanthomonas campestris pv. vesicatoria_EcoPhage and Bacteriophage active against Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato_EcoPhage on all food and feed commodities. This means EPA will not set a numerical maximum permissible level for residues of these two EcoPhage products.
EPA Finds EcoPhage Residues Safe for People
EPA evaluated the data and determined that these two EcoPhage bacteriophages are not expected to be toxic, pathogenic, or infective to humans, including infants and children. EPA concluded there is a reasonable certainty of no harm from aggregate exposure and therefore did not apply an additional Food Quality Protection Act safety factor.
Exemptions Limited to Labeled, Good Practices
The exemptions from tolerance apply only when these EcoPhage products are used in accordance with label directions and good agricultural practices. Users such as farmers and applicators must follow label instructions to rely on the tolerance exemptions.
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