Aluminum in Pesticide Formulations; Exemption From the Requirement for a Tolerance
Key claim: EPA established a tolerance exemption for aluminum residues when used as a seed treatment colorant inert ingredient in pesticide formulations at no more than 5% of the formulation.
Abstract
(Rule · Environmental Protection Agency) This regulation establishes an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance for residues of aluminum (CAS Reg. No. 7429-90-5) when used as an inert ingredient (seed treatment colorant) for seed treatment only at not more than 5% of pesticide formulation. Steptoe & Johnson, LLP on behalf of Sun Chemical, submitted a petition to EPA under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA), requesting establishment of an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance. This regulation eliminates the need to establish a maximum permissible level for residues of aluminum, when used in accordance with the terms of those exemptions.
Why this matters
Tolerance exemptions for inert ingredients streamline formulation approvals for pesticide manufacturers and reduce regulatory friction for seed treatment products, which farmers rely on for early-season crop protection. For consumers, EPA’s safety finding means aluminum residues at this use level are not expected to pose dietary risk, so no measurable food price or supply impact is anticipated.