EPA Exempts New Pesticide Surfactant From Numerical Residue Limits

EPA exempted a sucrose-fatty-acid surfactant from a numerical residue tolerance when used at no more than 12% of preharvest pesticide formulations. EPA said available data showed no toxicological endpoint of concern, including for infants and children.

Under the Headline

“Inert” describes a formulation role, not toxicity. EPA relied partly on data bridged from three similar sucrose esters and capped the ingredient at 12% to limit potential respiratory surfactant effects. The rule takes effect immediately; objections or hearing requests are due October 27.