EPA Eliminates Tolerance Requirements for Bacillus Pumilus Strain in Food Commodities

The Environmental Protection Agency issued a final rule in the Federal Register that eliminates the need to establish a maximum permissible level for residues of Bacillus pumilus strain GHA 180 in or all food commodities. The agency was acting on a petition by Premier Horticulture seeking an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance for residues of the strain. Considerations for providing the exemption include the policy of harmonizing U.S. tolerances with international standards wherever possible, the EPA said. The agency considers international maximum residue limits (MRLs) established by the Codex Alimentarius Commission (Codex), as required by FFDCA Sec. 408(b)(4), it said. Codex Alimentarius, which is recognized as an international food safety standards-setting organization, has not established a MRL for Bacillus pumilus strain GHA 180. The regulation will go into effect on or around May 30.