Pesticides and biocides – United States

This regulation establishes tolerances for residues of propylene oxide (PPO) in or on sesame, seed; turmeric, roots, dried; ginger, dried; pepper, bell, dried; and pepper, nonbell, dried. ABERCO, Inc., a Balchem Company, submitted a petition to EPA requesting that EPA establish a maximum permissible level for residues of this pesticide in or on the identified commodities. In making its tolerance decisions, EPA seeks to harmonize US tolerances with international standards whenever possible, consistent with US food safety standards and agricultural practices. EPA considers the international maximum residue limits (MRL) established by the Codex Alimentarius Commission (Codex), as required by FFDCA section 408(b)(4). Codex is a joint United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization/World Health Organization food standards program, and it is recognized as an international food safety standards-setting organization in trade agreements to which the United States is a party. EPA may establish a tolerance that is different from a Codex MRL; however, FFDCA section 408(b)(4) requires that EPA explain the reasons for departing from the Codex level. Codex has not established a MRL for PPO in or on ginger, bell or nonbell pepper, sesame seed, or turmeric, roots. Revisions to Petitioned-For Tolerances During the registration review of PPO conducted under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), EPA determined that PCH tolerances are not needed since PPO residues…