Sorbitan Monooleate Ethylene Oxide Adduct; Exemption From the Requirement of a Tolerance, 46260-46265 [2013-18188]
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Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 147 / Wednesday, July 31, 2013 / Rules and Regulations
4. Collection of Information
This rule calls for no new collection
of information under the Paperwork
Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501–
3520).
5. Federalism
A rule has implications for federalism
under Executive Order 13132,
Federalism, if it has a substantial direct
effect on State or local governments and
would either preempt State law or
impose a substantial direct cost of
compliance on them. We have analyzed
this rule under that Order and have
determined that it does not have
implications for federalism.
6. Protest Activities
The Coast Guard respects the First
Amendment rights of protesters.
Protesters are asked to contact the
person listed in the FOR FURTHER
INFORMATION CONTACT section to
coordinate protest activities so that your
message can be received without
jeopardizing the safety or security of
people, places or vessels.
7. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act
The Unfunded Mandates Reform Act
of 1995 (2 U.S.C. 1531–1538) requires
Federal agencies to assess the effects of
their discretionary regulatory actions. In
particular, the Act addresses actions
that may result in the expenditure by a
State, local, or tribal government, in the
aggregate, or by the private sector of
$100,000,000 or more in any one year.
Though this rule will not result in such
expenditure, we do discuss the effects of
this rule elsewhere in this preamble.
8. Taking of Private Property
This rule will not affect a taking of
private property or otherwise have
taking implications under Executive
Order 12630, Governmental Actions and
Interference with Constitutionally
Protected Property Rights.
9. Civil Justice Reform
This rule meets applicable standards
in sections 3(a) and 3(b)(2) of Executive
Order 12988, Civil Justice Reform, to
minimize litigation, eliminate
ambiguity, and reduce burden.
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10. Protection of Children
We have analyzed this rule under
Executive Order 13045, Protection of
Children from Environmental Health
Risks and Safety Risks. This rule is not
an economically significant rule and
does not create an environmental risk to
health or risk to safety that may
disproportionately affect children.
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11. Indian Tribal Governments
This rule does not have tribal
implications under Executive Order
13175, Consultation and Coordination
with Indian Tribal Governments,
because it does not have a substantial
direct effect on one or more Indian
tribes, on the relationship between the
Federal Government and Indian tribes,
or on the distribution of power and
responsibilities between the Federal
Government and Indian tribes.
12. Energy Effects
This action is not a ‘‘significant
energy action’’ under Executive Order
13211, Actions Concerning Regulations
That Significantly Affect Energy Supply,
Distribution, or Use.
13. Technical Standards
This rule does not use technical
standards. Therefore, we did not
consider the use of voluntary consensus
standards.
14. Environment
We have analyzed this rule under
Department of Homeland Security
Management Directive 023–01 and
Commandant Instruction M16475.lD,
which guides the Coast Guard in
complying with the National
Environmental Policy Act of 1969
(NEPA) (42 U.S.C. 4321–4370f), and
have determined that this action is one
of a category of actions that do not
individually or cumulatively have a
significant effect on the human
environment. This rule involves
establishing a safety zone, requiring a
permit wherein an analysis of the
environmental impact of the regulations
was performed. This rule is
categorically excluded, under paragraph
34(h) of Figure 2–1 of the Commandant
Instruction. An environmental analysis
checklist supporting this determination
and a Categorical Exclusion
Determination are available in the
docket where indicated under
ADDRESSES.
33 CFR 1.05–1, 6.04–1, 6.04–6, and 160.5;
Pub. L. 107–295, 116 Stat. 2064; Department
of Homeland Security Delegation No. 0170.1.
2. Add § 165.T08–0410 to read as
follows:
■
§ 165.T08–0410 Safety Zone; Upper
Mississippi River, Mile 662.8 to 663.9.
(a) Location. The following area is a
safety zone: All waters of the Upper
Mississippi River, mile 662.8 to 663.9,
extending the entire width of the
waterway.
(b) Effective Date. This rule is
effective and enforceable on August 10,
2013.
(c) Periods of Enforcement. This rule
will be enforced during the following
time period: From 8:30 p.m. until 10
p.m. for all waters from mile 662.8 to
663.9. The Captain of the Port Upper
Mississippi River will inform the public
of the enforcement periods via local
notice to mariners and subsequent
changes by broadcast notice to mariners.
(d) Regulations. (1) In accordance
with the general regulations in § 165.23
of this part, entry into this zone is
prohibited unless authorized by the
Captain of the Port Upper Mississippi
River or a designated representative.
(2) Persons or vessels requiring entry
into or passage through the zone must
request permission from the Captain of
the Port Upper Mississippi River or a
designated representative. The Captain
of the Port Upper Mississippi River
representative may be contacted at 314–
269–2332.
(3) All persons and vessels shall
comply with the instructions of the
Captain of the Port Upper Mississippi
River or their designated representative.
Designated Captain of the Port
representatives include United States
Coast Guard commissioned, warrant,
and petty officers.
Dated: July 10, 2013.
B.L. Black,
Captain, U.S. Coast Guard, Captain of the
Port Upper Mississippi River.
[FR Doc. 2013–18342 Filed 7–30–13; 8:45 am]
List of Subjects in 33 CFR Part 165
Harbors, Marine safety, Navigation
(water), Reporting and recordkeeping
requirements, Security measures,
Waterways.
For the reasons discussed in the
preamble, the Coast Guard amends 33
CFR Part 165 as follows:
BILLING CODE 9110–04–P
PART 165—REGULATED NAVIGATION
AREAS AND LIMITED ACCESS AREAS
Sorbitan Monooleate Ethylene Oxide
Adduct; Exemption From the
Requirement of a Tolerance
1. The authority citation for part 165
continues to read as follows:
AGENCY:
■
Authority: 33 U.S.C., 1231; 46 U.S.C.
Chapter 701, 3306, 3703; 50 U.S.C. 191, 195;
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ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
AGENCY
40 CFR Part 180
[EPA–HQ–OPP–2012–0908; FRL–9389–8]
Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA).
ACTION: Final rule.
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Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 147 / Wednesday, July 31, 2013 / Rules and Regulations
This regulation establishes an
exemption from the requirement of a
tolerance for residues of sorbitan, mono9-octadecenoate, poly(oxy-1,2ethanediyl) derivs., (Z)- (CAS Reg. No
9005–65–6) (also known as ‘‘sorbitan
monooleate ethylene oxide adduct’’ and
as ‘‘polysorbate 80’’) when used as an
inert ingredient in antimicrobial
formulations for use on food-contact
surfaces in public eating places, dairyprocessing equipment, and foodprocessing equipment and utensils.
Exponent, on behalf of Ecolab, Inc.
submitted a petition to EPA under the
Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act
(FFDCA), requesting the establishment
of an exemption from the requirement of
a tolerance. This regulation eliminates
the need to establish a maximum
permissible level for residues of sorbitan
monooleate ethylene oxide adduct.
DATES: This regulation is effective July
31, 2013. Objections and requests for
hearings must be received on or before
September 30, 2013, and must be filed
in accordance with the instructions
provided in 40 CFR part 178 (see also
Unit I.C. of the SUPPLEMENTARY
INFORMATION).
ADDRESSES: The docket for this action,
identified by docket identification (ID)
number EPA–HQ–OPP–2012–0908, is
available at https://www.regulations.gov
or at the Office of Pesticide Programs
Regulatory Public Docket (OPP Docket)
in the Environmental Protection Agency
Docket Center (EPA/DC), EPA West
Bldg., Rm. 3334, 1301 Constitution
Ave., NW., Washington, DC 20460–
0001. The Public Reading Room is open
from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday
through Friday, excluding legal
holidays. The telephone number for the
Public Reading Room is (202) 566–1744,
and the telephone number for the OPP
Docket is (703) 305–5805. Please review
the visitor instructions and additional
information about the docket available
at https://www.epa.gov/dockets.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Lois
Rossi, Registration Division (7505P),
Office of Pesticide Programs,
Environmental Protection Agency, 1200
Pennsylvania Ave. NW., Washington,
DC 20460–0001; telephone number:
(703) 305–7090; email address:
RDFRNotices@epa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
SUMMARY:
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I. General Information
A. Does this action apply to me?
You may be potentially affected by
this action if you are an agricultural
producer, food manufacturer, or
pesticide manufacturer. The following
list of North American Industrial
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Classification System (NAICS) codes is
not intended to be exhaustive, but rather
provides a guide to help readers
determine whether this document
applies to them. Potentially affected
entities may include:
• Crop production (NAICS code 111).
• Animal production (NAICS code
112).
• Food manufacturing (NAICS code
311).
• Pesticide manufacturing (NAICS
code 32532).
B. How can I get electronic access to
other related information?
You may access a frequently updated
electronic version of 40 CFR part 180
through the Government Printing
Office’s e-CFR site at https://
www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?&c=ecfr&
tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title40/40tab_02.tpl.
C. How can I file an objection or hearing
request?
Under FFDCA section 408(g), 21
U.S.C. 346a, any person may file an
objection to any aspect of this regulation
and may also request a hearing on those
objections. You must file your objection
or request a hearing on this regulation
in accordance with the instructions
provided in 40 CFR part 178. To ensure
proper receipt by EPA, you must
identify docket ID number EPA–HQ–
OPP–2012–0908 in the subject line on
the first page of your submission. All
objections and requests for a hearing
must be in writing, and must be
received by the Hearing Clerk on or
before September 30, 2013. Addresses
for mail and hand delivery of objections
and hearing requests are provided in 40
CFR 178.25(b).
In addition to filing an objection or
hearing request with the Hearing Clerk
as described in 40 CFR part 178, please
submit a copy of the filing (excluding
any Confidential Business Information
(CBI)) for inclusion in the public docket.
Information not marked confidential
pursuant to 40 CFR part 2 may be
disclosed publicly by EPA without prior
notice. Submit the non-CBI copy of your
objection or hearing request, identified
by docket ID number EPA–HQ–OPP–
2012–0908, by one of the following
methods:
• Federal eRulemaking Portal: https://
www.regulations.gov. Follow the online
instructions for submitting comments.
Do not submit electronically any
information you consider to be CBI or
other information whose disclosure is
restricted by statute.
• Mail: OPP Docket, Environmental
Protection Agency Docket Center (EPA/
DC), (28221T), 1200 Pennsylvania Ave.
NW., Washington, DC 20460–0001.
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• Hand Delivery: To make special
arrangements for hand delivery or
delivery of boxed information, please
follow the instructions at https://
www.epa.gov/dockets/contacts.htm.
Additional instructions on commenting
or visiting the docket, along with more
information about dockets generally, is
available at https://www.epa.gov/
dockets.
II. Petition for Exemption
In the Federal Register of February
15, 2013 (78 FR 11129) (FRL–9378–4),
EPA issued a document pursuant to
FFDCA section 408, 21 U.S.C. 346a,
announcing the filing of a pesticide
petition (PP IN–10524) by Exponent, on
behalf of Ecolab, Inc., 370 Wabasha St.,
St. Paul MN 55102. The petition
requested that 40 CFR 180.940(a) be
amended by establishing an exemption
from the requirement of a tolerance for
residues of sorbitan monooleate
ethylene oxide adduct when used as an
inert ingredient in antimicrobial
formulations applied to food-contact
surfaces in public eating places, dairyprocessing equipment, and foodprocessing equipment and utensils. That
document referenced a summary of the
petition prepared by Exponent, the
petitioner, which is available in the
docket, https://www.regulations.gov.
There were no comments received in
response to the notice of filing.
III. Inert Ingredient Definition
Inert ingredients are all ingredients
that are not active ingredients as defined
in 40 CFR 153.125 and include, but are
not limited to, the following types of
ingredients (except when they have a
pesticidal efficacy of their own):
Solvents such as alcohols and
hydrocarbons; surfactants such as
polyoxyethylene polymers and fatty
acids; carriers such as clay and
diatomaceous earth; thickeners such as
carrageenan and modified cellulose;
wetting, spreading, and dispersing
agents; propellants in aerosol
dispensers; microencapsulating agents;
and emulsifiers. The term ‘‘inert’’ is not
intended to imply nontoxicity; the
ingredient may or may not be
chemically active. Generally, EPA has
exempted inert ingredients from the
requirement of a tolerance based on the
low toxicity of the individual inert
ingredients.
IV. Aggregate Risk Assessment and
Determination of Safety
Section 408(c)(2)(A)(i) of FFDCA
allows EPA to establish an exemption
from the requirement for a tolerance (the
legal limit for a pesticide chemical
residue in or on a food) only if EPA
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determines that the tolerance is ‘‘safe.’’
Section 408(b)(2)(A)(ii) of FFDCA
defines ‘‘safe’’ to mean that ‘‘there is a
reasonable certainty that no harm will
result from aggregate exposure to the
pesticide chemical residue, including
all anticipated dietary exposures and all
other exposures for which there is
reliable information.’’ This includes
exposure through drinking water and in
residential settings, but does not include
occupational exposure. Section
408(b)(2)(C) of FFDCA requires EPA to
give special consideration to exposure
of infants and children to the pesticide
chemical residue in establishing a
tolerance and to ‘‘ensure that there is a
reasonable certainty that no harm will
result to infants and children from
aggregate exposure to the pesticide
chemical residue . . . .’’
EPA establishes exemptions from the
requirement of a tolerance only in those
cases where it can be clearly
demonstrated that the risks from
aggregate exposure to pesticide
chemical residues under reasonably
foreseeable circumstances will pose no
appreciable risks to human health. In
order to determine the risks from
aggregate exposure to pesticide inert
ingredients, the Agency considers the
toxicity of the inert in conjunction with
possible exposure to residues of the
inert ingredient through food, drinking
water, and through other exposures that
occur as a result of pesticide use in
residential settings. If EPA is able to
determine that a finite tolerance is not
necessary to ensure that there is a
reasonable certainty that no harm will
result from aggregate exposure to the
inert ingredient, an exemption from the
requirement of a tolerance may be
established.
Consistent with FFDCA section
408(c)(2)(A), and the factors specified in
FFDCA section 408(c)(2)(B), EPA has
reviewed the available scientific data
and other relevant information in
support of this action. EPA has
sufficient data to assess the hazards of
and to make a determination on
aggregate exposure for sorbitan
monooleate ethylene oxide adduct
including exposure resulting from the
exemption established by this action.
EPA’s assessment of exposures and risks
associated with sorbitan monooleate
ethylene oxide adduct follows.
A. Toxicological Profile
EPA has evaluated the available
toxicity data and considered their
validity, completeness, and reliability as
well as the relationship of the results of
the studies to human risk. EPA has also
considered available information
concerning the variability of the
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sensitivities of major identifiable
subgroups of consumers, including
infants and children. Specific
information on the studies received and
the nature of the adverse effects caused
by sorbitan monooleate ethylene oxide
adduct as well as the no-observedadverse-effect-level (NOAEL) and the
lowest-observed-adverse-effect-level
(LOAEL) from the toxicity studies are
discussed in this unit.
The acute oral toxicity of sorbitan
monooleate ethylene oxide adduct is
low; the LD50 was >25,000 mg/kg in the
rat and mouse. Also, no systemic or
adverse effects were observed in rats
following a single oral dose of 22,000
mg/kg/day. Sorbitan monooleate
ethylene oxide adduct did not cause eye
irritation in rabbits. It was not a dermal
sensitizer in guinea pigs. Acute dermal
toxicity was not observed in rabbits
exposed to sorbitan sesquioleate
ethoxylate, a substance that is closely
related to sorbitan monooleate ethylene
oxide adduct.
Sorbitan monooleate ethylene oxide
adduct was administered via the diet to
rats in a subchronic toxicity study.
Systemic toxicity was not observed in
rats following exposure to 2,500 mg/kg/
day of sorbitan monooleate ethylene
oxide adduct in the diet for 13 weeks.
In developmental and reproduction
toxicity studies, rats and mice
administered sorbitan monooleate
ethylene oxide adduct at doses >10,000
mg/kg/day exhibited toxicity. These
doses well exceed the limit dose of
1,000 mg/kg/day.
Available mutagenicity studies
included the rec-assay, reverse mutation
assay, chromosome aberration test, a
mouse micronucleus assay, and a
dominant lethal test. Sorbitan
monooleate ethylene oxide adduct was
negative for inducing mutations and
aberrations in all of the studies.
Therefore, sorbitan monooleate ethylene
oxide adduct is considered
nonmutagenic.
Evidence of carcinogenicity was not
observed in mice. In rats, the incidence
of adrenal medulla malignant and
benign pheochromocytoma is 4% and
58%, respectively, in high dose males.
The historical control ranges for
malignant and total benign
pheochromocytoma are 0–20% and 22–
48%, respectively. The incidence of
total benign adrenal medulla
pheochromocytoma (29/50, 58%) was
marginally increased though not
significantly in high dose (50,000 ppm)
males only when compared to control
male rats (21/50, 42%). Nevertheless,
the Agency concluded that the concern
for carcinogenicity is low based on the
following:
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1. The adrenal medulla
pheochromocytomas were observed in
only one sex and species at an
extremely high dose, 2,500 mg/kg/day,
which is in excess of 2.5 times the limit
dose;
2. The increased incidence was
observed in benign tumors,
3. The lack of mutagenicity of sorbitan
monoleate ethylene oxide adduct; and
4. General low toxicity of the
substance. Therefore, a cancer risk
assessment was not conducted.
Neurotoxicity parameters were
evaluated in a reproduction toxicity
study in rats with sorbitan monooleate
ethylene oxide adduct. Evidence of
neurotoxicity was not observed.
Although no immunotoxicity studies
were available for review, none of the
submitted studies indicated any
evidence of immunotoxicity.
A metabolism study in rats showed
that sorbitan monooleate ethylene oxide
adduct administered orally is
hydrolyzed, poorly absorbed, and
excreted mainly in the feces.
Bioaccumulation was not observed.
B. Toxicological Points of Departure/
Levels of Concern
The available toxicity studies indicate
that sorbitan monooleate ethylene oxide
adduct has very low toxicity. The
toxicity database is consists of toxicity
data on subchronic and chronic
exposures; carcinogenicity,
developmental, reproduction,
mutagenicity and metabolism. Although
a developmental study in rabbits and a
dermal toxicity study are not available,
there is no concern for the lack of these
studies. There is no concern for the lack
of a developmental study in rabbits
because fetal susceptibility was not
observed in the available developmental
and reproduction studies in rats and
mice. Also, toxicity was only observed
at doses (>10,000 mg/kg/day) well above
the limit dose.
In regard to the sorbitan monooleate
ethylene oxide adduct toxicity database,
the lowest NOAEL (100 mg/kg/day) was
observed in a developmental study in
rats where 100 mg/kg/day was the only
tested dose. However, the results in this
study were considered unreliable
because the effects were not
reproducible in other studies conducted
with the same species, at higher doses
and longer exposure. In these remaining
studies, toxicity was observed only at
doses >2,500 mg/kg/day, well above the
limit dose of 1,000 mg/kg/day.
Therefore, since no endpoint of concern
was identified for the acute and chronic
dietary exposure assessment and short
and intermediate dermal and inhalation
exposure, a quantitative risk assessment
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for sorbitan monooleate ethylene oxide
adduct is not necessary.
C. Exposure Assessment
1. Dietary exposure from food and
feed uses. In evaluating dietary
exposure to sorbitan monooleate
ethylene oxide adduct, EPA considered
exposure under the proposed exemption
from the requirement of a tolerance (40
CFR 180.940(a)) and as an inert
ingredient used in pesticide
formulations applied to growing crops
and animals under the existing
exemptions from the requirement of a
tolerance given at 40 CFR 180.910 and
180.930. EPA assessed dietary
exposures from sorbitan monooleate
ethylene oxide adduct in food as
follows:
Sorbitan monooleate ethylene oxide
adducts are used as surfactants, related
adjuvants of surfactants, emulsifiers,
buffering agents, and corrosion
inhibitors in a variety of residential
pesticide products including yard,
garden, and turf products, as well as in
agricultural crop products, applied to
growing crops, raw agricultural
commodities after harvest, and/or to
animals. Additionally, they are used
extensively as emulsifiers, stabilizers
and thickeners in food, cosmetics,
personal care and medical products, and
lubricants.
For the general population, the
majority of exposure to sorbitan
monooleate ethylene oxide adduct
occurs from the extensive use in
consumer products and as FDAapproved direct and indirect food
additives. Under this exemption from
the requirement of a tolerance, residues
of this chemical also may be found on
food-contact surfaces, such as tableware
and utensils, and in dairies and
beverage- and food-processing plants.
Because no hazard endpoint of concern
was identified for the acute and chronic
dietary assessment (food and drinking
water), a quantitative dietary exposure
risk assessment was not conducted.
2. Dietary exposure from drinking
water. Sorbitan monooleate ethylene
oxide adduct is not expected to be
present in drinking water based on its
physical/chemical properties. Further, a
hazard endpoint of concern was not
identified for the acute and chronic
dietary assessment; therefore, a
quantitative dietary exposure risk
assessment was not conducted.
3. From non-dietary exposure. The
term ‘‘residential exposure’’ is used in
this document to refer to nonoccupational, non-dietary exposure
(e.g., textiles (clothing and diapers),
carpets, swimming pools, and hard
surface disinfection on walls, floors,
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tables). In the case of sorbitan
monooleate ethylene oxide adduct, the
request is for use as an inert ingredient
in antimicrobial formulations for use on
food contact surfaces. Sorbitan
monooleate ethylene oxide adduct may
also be used in personal care products
and in products that are registered for
specific uses that may result in
residential exposure. However, based on
the lack of toxicity, a quantitative
exposure assessment from ‘‘residential
exposures’’ was not performed.
4. Cumulative effects from substances
with a common mechanism of toxicity.
Section 408(b)(2)(D)(v) of FFDCA
requires that, when considering whether
to establish, modify, or revoke a
tolerance, the Agency consider
‘‘available information’’ concerning the
cumulative effects of a particular
pesticide’s residues and ‘‘other
substances that have a common
mechanism of toxicity.’’
EPA has not found sorbitan
monooleate ethylene oxide adduct to
share a common mechanism of toxicity
with any other substances, and sorbitan
monooleate ethylene oxide adduct does
not appear to produce a toxic metabolite
produced by other substances. For the
purposes of this tolerance action,
therefore, EPA has assumed that
sorbitan monooleate ethylene oxide
adduct does not have a common
mechanism of toxicity with other
substances. For information regarding
EPA’s efforts to determine which
chemicals have a common mechanism
of toxicity and to evaluate the
cumulative effects of such chemicals,
see EPA’s Web site at https://
www.epa.gov/pesticides/cumulative.
D. Safety Factor for Infants and
Children
1. In general. Section 408(b)(2)(C) of
FFDCA provides that EPA shall apply
an additional tenfold (10X) margin of
safety for infants and children in the
case of threshold effects to account for
prenatal and postnatal toxicity and the
completeness of the database on toxicity
and exposure unless EPA determines
based on reliable data that a different
margin of safety will be safe for infants
and children. This additional margin of
safety is commonly referred to as the
FQPA Safety Factor (SF). In applying
this provision, EPA either retains the
default value of 10X, or uses a different
additional safety factor when reliable
data available to EPA support the choice
of a different factor.
As part of its qualitative assessment,
the Agency did not use safety factors for
assessing risk, and no additional safety
factor is needed for assessing risk to
infants and children. The toxicity
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database contains several acute and
subchronic, carcinogenicity,
development toxicity, reproductive
toxicity, and mutagenicity studies. The
available toxicity studies indicate that
sorbitan monooleate ethylene oxide
adduct has very low toxicity. The lowest
NOAEL (100 mg/kg/day) was observed
in a developmental study where 100
mg/kg/day was the only tested dose.
However, in the remaining studies
where more than one dose was tested,
toxicity was observed only at doses
>2,500 mg/kg/day, well above the limit
dose of 1,000 mg/kg/day. Further, fetal
toxicity was only observed at doses
>10,000 mg/kg/day. Although no
neurotoxicity studies are available for
sorbitan monooleate ethylene oxide
adduct, EPA is not concerned for
neurotoxic effects because neurotoxicity
was not observed in a developmental
study in rats where neurotoxic
parameters were evaluated. Also,
although no immunotoxicity studies are
available for sorbitan monooleate
ethylene oxide adduct, none of the
submitted studies showed any
indications of immunotoxicity. Thus,
there is no residual uncertainty with
regard to pre- and post-natal toxicity of
sorbitan monooleate ethylene oxide
adduct.
E. Aggregate Risks and Determination of
Safety
EPA determines whether acute and
chronic dietary pesticide exposures are
safe by comparing aggregate exposure
estimates to the acute PAD (aPAD) and
chronic PAD (cPAD). For linear cancer
risks, EPA calculates the lifetime
probability of acquiring cancer given the
estimated aggregate exposure. Short-,
intermediate-, and chronic-term risks
are evaluated by comparing the
estimated aggregate food, water, and
residential exposure to the appropriate
PODs to ensure that an adequate MOE
exists.
1. Acute risk. An acute aggregate risk
assessment takes into account acute
exposure estimates from dietary
consumption of food and drinking
water. No adverse effect resulting from
a single oral exposure was identified
and no acute dietary endpoint was
selected. Therefore, sorbitan monooleate
ethylene oxide adduct is not expected to
pose an acute risk.
2. Chronic risk. Using the exposure
assumptions described in this unit for
chronic exposure, EPA has concluded
that based on the lack of toxicity of
sorbitan monooleate ethylene oxide
adduct and since no chronic endpoint
was identified, chronic risk is not
expected.
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Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 147 / Wednesday, July 31, 2013 / Rules and Regulations
3. Short-term risk. Short-term
aggregate exposure takes into account
short-term residential exposure plus
chronic exposure to food and water
(considered to be a background
exposure level). Because no short-term
adverse effect was identified, sorbitan
monooleate ethylene oxide adduct is not
expected to pose a short-term risk.
4. Intermediate-term risk.
Intermediate-term aggregate exposure
takes into account intermediate-term
residential exposure plus chronic
exposure to food and water (considered
to be a background exposure level).
Because no intermediate-term adverse
effect was identified, sorbitan
monooleate ethylene oxide adduct is not
expected to pose an intermediate-term
risk.
5. Aggregate cancer risk for U.S.
population. Based on the discussion of
the potential carcinogenicity of sorbitan
monooleate ethylene oxide adduct in
Unit IV.A., sorbitan monooleate
ethylene oxide adduct is not expected to
pose a cancer risk.
6. Determination of safety. Based on
the lack of concern for hazard posed by
sorbitan monooleate ethylene oxide
adduct, EPA concludes that there is a
reasonable certainty that no harm will
result to the general population or to
infants and children from aggregate
exposure to sorbitan monooleate
ethylene oxide adduct.
V. Other Considerations
A. Analytical Enforcement Methodology
An analytical method is not required
for enforcement purposes since the
Agency is establishing an exemption
from the requirement of a tolerance
without any numerical limitation.
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B. International Residue Limits
In making its tolerance decisions, EPA
seeks to harmonize U.S. tolerances with
international standards whenever
possible, consistent with U.S. food
safety standards and agricultural
practices. EPA considers the
international maximum residue limits
(MRLs) established by the Codex
Alimentarius Commission (Codex), as
required by FFDCA section 408(b)(4).
The Codex Alimentarius is a joint
United Nation 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
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EPA explain the reasons for departing
from the Codex level.
The Codex has not established a MRL
for sorbitan monooleate ethylene oxide
adduct.
VI. Conclusions
Therefore, an exemption from the
requirement of a tolerance is established
under 40 CFR 180.940(a) for sorbitan,
mono-9-octadecenoate, poly(oxy-1,2ethanediyl) derivs., (Z)- (also known as
sorbitan monooleate ethylene oxide
adduct) (CAS Reg. No. 9005–65–6)
when used as an inert ingredient (in
antimicrobial formulations) applied to
food-contact surfaces in public eating
places, dairy-processing equipment, and
food-processing equipment and utensils.
VII. Statutory and Executive Order
Reviews
This final rule establishes an
exemption from the requirement of a
tolerance under FFDCA section 408(d)
in response to a petition submitted to
the Agency. The Office of Management
and Budget (OMB) has exempted these
types of actions from review under
Executive Order 12866, entitled
‘‘Regulatory Planning and Review’’ (58
FR 51735, October 4, 1993). Because
this final rule has been exempted from
review under Executive Order 12866,
this final rule is not subject to Executive
Order 13211, entitled ‘‘Actions
Concerning Regulations That
Significantly Affect Energy Supply,
Distribution, or Use’’ (66 FR 28355, May
22, 2001) or Executive Order 13045,
entitled ‘‘Protection of Children from
Environmental Health Risks and Safety
Risks’’ (62 FR 19885, April 23, 1997).
This final rule does not contain any
information collections subject to OMB
approval under the Paperwork
Reduction Act (PRA) (44 U.S.C. 3501 et
seq.), nor does it require any special
considerations under Executive Order
12898, entitled ‘‘Federal Actions to
Address Environmental Justice in
Minority Populations and Low-Income
Populations’’ (59 FR 7629, February 16,
1994).
Since tolerances and exemptions that
are established on the basis of a petition
under FFDCA section 408(d), such as
the exemption to the requirement of a
tolerance in this final rule, do not
require the issuance of a proposed rule,
the requirements of the Regulatory
Flexibility Act (RFA) (5 U.S.C. 601 et
seq.), do not apply.
This final rule directly regulates
growers, food processors, food handlers,
and food retailers, not States or tribes,
nor does this action alter the
relationships or distribution of power
and responsibilities established by
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Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
Congress in the preemption provisions
of FFDCA section 408(n)(4). As such,
the Agency has determined that this
action will not have a substantial direct
effect on States or tribal governments,
on the relationship between the national
government and the States or tribal
governments, or on the distribution of
power and responsibilities among the
various levels of government or between
the Federal Government and Indian
tribes. Thus, the Agency has determined
that Executive Order 13132, entitled
‘‘Federalism’’ (64 FR 43255, August 10,
1999) and Executive Order 13175,
entitled ‘‘Consultation and Coordination
with Indian Tribal Governments’’ (65 FR
67249, November 9, 2000) do not apply
to this final rule. In addition, this final
rule does not impose any enforceable
duty or contain any unfunded mandate
as described under Title II of the
Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995
(UMRA) (2 U.S.C. 1501 et seq.).
This action does not involve any
technical standards that would require
Agency consideration of voluntary
consensus standards pursuant to section
12(d) of the National Technology
Transfer and Advancement Act of 1995
(NTTAA) (15 U.S.C. 272 note).
VIII. Congressional Review Act
Pursuant to the Congressional Review
Act (5 U.S.C. 801 et seq.), EPA will
submit a report containing this rule and
other required information to the U.S.
Senate, the U.S. House of
Representatives, and the Comptroller
General of the United States prior to
publication of the rule in the Federal
Register. This action is not a ‘‘major
rule’’ as defined by 5 U.S.C. 804(2).
List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 180
Environmental protection,
Administrative practice and procedure,
Agricultural commodities, Pesticides
and pests, Reporting and recordkeeping
requirements.
Dated: July 22, 2013.
Lois Rossi,
Director, Registration Division, Office of
Pesticide Programs.
Therefore, 40 CFR chapter I is
amended as follows:
PART 180—[AMENDED]
1. The authority citation for part 180
continues to read as follows:
■
Authority: 21 U.S.C. 321(q), 346a and 371.
2. In § 180.940, in paragraph (a),
alphabetically add the following inert
ingredient to the table to read as
follows:
■
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Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 147 / Wednesday, July 31, 2013 / Rules and Regulations
§ 180.940 Tolerance exemptions for active
and inert ingredients for use in
antimicrobial formulations (Food-contact
surface sanitizing solutions).
*
*
*
(a) * * *
*
*
Pesticide chemical
CAS Reg.
No.
*
*
*
*
Sorbitan, mono-9octadecenoate,
poly(oxy-1,2ethanediyl) derivs.,
(Z)-.
*
*
*
9005–65–6
*
Limits
None.
*
*
Friday, excluding legal holidays. The
telephone number for the Public
Reading Room is (202) 566–1744, and
the telephone number for the OPP
Docket is (703) 305–5805. Please review
the visitor instructions and additional
information about the docket available
at https://www.epa.gov/dockets.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Menyon Adams, Biopesticides and
Pollution Prevention Division (7511P),
Office of Pesticide Programs,
Environmental Protection Agency, 1200
Pennsylvania Ave. NW., Washington,
DC 20460–0001; telephone number:
(703) 347–8496; email address:
adams.menyon@epa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
I. General Information
*
*
*
*
*
[FR Doc. 2013–18188 Filed 7–30–13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6560–50–P
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
AGENCY
40 CFR Part 180
[EPA–HQ–OPP–2009–0917; FRL–9391–2]
Complex Polymeric Polyhydroxy
Acids; Exemption From the
Requirement of a Tolerance
Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA).
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
This regulation establishes an
exemption from the requirement of a
tolerance for residues of Complex
Polymeric Polyhydroxy Acids in or on
all food commodities. This regulation
eliminates the need to establish a
maximum permissible level for residues
of Complex Polymeric Polyhydroxy
Acids (CPPA) under FFDCA.
DATES: This regulation is effective July
31, 2013. Objections and requests for
hearings must be received on or before
September 30, 2013, and must be filed
in accordance with the instructions
provided in 40 CFR part 178 (see also
Unit I.C. of the SUPPLEMENTARY
INFORMATION).
SUMMARY:
The docket for this action,
identified by docket identification (ID)
number EPA–HQ–OPP–2009–0917, is
available at https://www.regulations.gov
or at the Office of Pesticide Programs
Regulatory Public Docket (OPP Docket)
in the Environmental Protection Agency
Docket Center (EPA/DC), EPA West
Bldg., Rm. 3334, 1301 Constitution Ave.
NW., Washington, DC 20460–0001. The
Public Reading Room is open from 8:30
a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through
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ADDRESSES:
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14:07 Jul 30, 2013
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A. Does this action apply to me?
You may be potentially affected by
this action if you are an agricultural
producer, food manufacturer, or
pesticide manufacturer. The following
list of North American Industrial
Classification System (NAICS) codes is
not intended to be exhaustive, but rather
provides a guide to help readers
determine whether this document
applies to them. Potentially affected
entities may include:
• Crop production (NAICS code 111).
• Animal production (NAICS code
112).
• Food manufacturing (NAICS code
311).
• Pesticide manufacturing (NAICS
code 32532).
B. How can I get electronic access to
other related information?
You may access a frequently updated
electronic version of 40 CFR part 180
through the Government Printing
Office’s e-CFR site at https://
www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/textidx?&c=ecfr&tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title40/
40tab_02.tpl. To access the OCSPP test
guidelines referenced in this document
electronically, please go to https://
www.epa.gov/ocspp and select ‘‘Test
Methods and Guidelines.’’
C. How can I file an objection or hearing
request?
Under FFDCA section 408(g), 21
U.S.C. 346a, any person may file an
objection to any aspect of this regulation
and may also request a hearing on those
objections. You must file your objection
or request a hearing on this regulation
in accordance with the instructions
provided in 40 CFR part 178. To ensure
proper receipt by EPA, you must
identify docket ID number EPA–HQ–
OPP–2009–0917 in the subject line on
the first page of your submission. All
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46265
objections and requests for a hearing
must be in writing, and must be
received by the Hearing Clerk on or
before September 30, 2013. Addresses
for mail and hand delivery of objections
and hearing requests are provided in 40
CFR 178.25(b).
In addition to filing an objection or
hearing request with the Hearing Clerk
as described in 40 CFR part 178, please
submit a copy of the filing (excluding
any Confidential Business Information
(CBI)) for inclusion in the public docket.
Information not marked confidential
pursuant to 40 CFR part 2 may be
disclosed publicly by EPA without prior
notice. Submit the non-CBI copy of your
objection or hearing request, identified
by docket ID number EPA–HQ–OPP–
2009–0917, by one of the methods
provided in 40 CFR 150.17(b).
II. Background and Statutory Findings
In the Federal Register of January 13,
2010 (75 FR 1775) (FRL–8805–6), EPA
issued a notice pursuant to FFDCA
section 408(d)(3), 21 U.S.C. 346a(d)(3),
announcing the filing of a pesticide
tolerance petition (PP 9F7645) by James
R. Yowell of Spring Trading Company
(the Petitioner), on behalf of Floratine
Biosciences Inc., 153 N. Main St., Suite
100, Collierville, TN 38017. The petition
requested that 40 CFR part 180 be
amended by establishing an exemption
from the requirement of a tolerance for
residues of Complex Polymeric
Polyhydroxy Acids. That document
referenced a summary of the petition
prepared by the Petitioner, which is
available in the docket, https://
www.regulations.gov. No comments
were received.
Section 408(c)(2)(A)(i) of FFDCA
allows EPA to establish an exemption
from the requirement for a tolerance (the
legal limit for a pesticide chemical
residue in or on a food) only if EPA
determines that the exemption is ‘‘safe.’’
Section 408(c)(2)(A)(ii) of FFDCA
defines ‘‘safe’’ to mean that ‘‘there is a
reasonable certainty that no harm will
result from aggregate exposure to the
pesticide chemical residue, including
all anticipated dietary exposures and all
other exposures for which there is
reliable information.’’ This includes
exposure through drinking water and in
residential settings, but does not include
occupational exposure. Pursuant to
FFDCA section 408(c)(2)(B), in
establishing or maintaining in effect an
exemption from the requirement of a
tolerance, EPA must take into account
the factors set forth in FFDCA section
408(b)(2)(C), which require EPA to give
special consideration to exposure of
infants and children to the pesticide
chemical residue in establishing a
E:\FR\FM\31JYR1.SGM
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Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 78, Number 147 (Wednesday, July 31, 2013)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 46260-46265]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2013-18188]
=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
40 CFR Part 180
[EPA-HQ-OPP-2012-0908; FRL-9389-8]
Sorbitan Monooleate Ethylene Oxide Adduct; Exemption From the
Requirement of a Tolerance
AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
[[Page 46261]]
SUMMARY: This regulation establishes an exemption from the requirement
of a tolerance for residues of sorbitan, mono-9-octadecenoate,
poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl) derivs., (Z)- (CAS Reg. No 9005-65-6) (also
known as ``sorbitan monooleate ethylene oxide adduct'' and as
``polysorbate 80'') when used as an inert ingredient in antimicrobial
formulations for use on food-contact surfaces in public eating places,
dairy-processing equipment, and food-processing equipment and utensils.
Exponent, on behalf of Ecolab, Inc. submitted a petition to EPA under
the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA), requesting the
establishment of an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance. This
regulation eliminates the need to establish a maximum permissible level
for residues of sorbitan monooleate ethylene oxide adduct.
DATES: This regulation is effective July 31, 2013. Objections and
requests for hearings must be received on or before September 30, 2013,
and must be filed in accordance with the instructions provided in 40
CFR part 178 (see also Unit I.C. of the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION).
ADDRESSES: The docket for this action, identified by docket
identification (ID) number EPA-HQ-OPP-2012-0908, is available at https://www.regulations.gov or at the Office of Pesticide Programs Regulatory
Public Docket (OPP Docket) in the Environmental Protection Agency
Docket Center (EPA/DC), EPA West Bldg., Rm. 3334, 1301 Constitution
Ave., NW., Washington, DC 20460-0001. The Public Reading Room is open
from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding legal
holidays. The telephone number for the Public Reading Room is (202)
566-1744, and the telephone number for the OPP Docket is (703) 305-
5805. Please review the visitor instructions and additional information
about the docket available at https://www.epa.gov/dockets.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Lois Rossi, Registration Division
(7505P), Office of Pesticide Programs, Environmental Protection Agency,
1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW., Washington, DC 20460-0001; telephone
number: (703) 305-7090; email address: RDFRNotices@epa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
I. General Information
A. Does this action apply to me?
You may be potentially affected by this action if you are an
agricultural producer, food manufacturer, or pesticide manufacturer.
The following list of North American Industrial Classification System
(NAICS) codes is not intended to be exhaustive, but rather provides a
guide to help readers determine whether this document applies to them.
Potentially affected entities may include:
Crop production (NAICS code 111).
Animal production (NAICS code 112).
Food manufacturing (NAICS code 311).
Pesticide manufacturing (NAICS code 32532).
B. How can I get electronic access to other related information?
You may access a frequently updated electronic version of 40 CFR
part 180 through the Government Printing Office's e-CFR site at https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?&c=ecfr&tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title40/40tab_02.tpl.
C. How can I file an objection or hearing request?
Under FFDCA section 408(g), 21 U.S.C. 346a, any person may file an
objection to any aspect of this regulation and may also request a
hearing on those objections. You must file your objection or request a
hearing on this regulation in accordance with the instructions provided
in 40 CFR part 178. To ensure proper receipt by EPA, you must identify
docket ID number EPA-HQ-OPP-2012-0908 in the subject line on the first
page of your submission. All objections and requests for a hearing must
be in writing, and must be received by the Hearing Clerk on or before
September 30, 2013. Addresses for mail and hand delivery of objections
and hearing requests are provided in 40 CFR 178.25(b).
In addition to filing an objection or hearing request with the
Hearing Clerk as described in 40 CFR part 178, please submit a copy of
the filing (excluding any Confidential Business Information (CBI)) for
inclusion in the public docket. Information not marked confidential
pursuant to 40 CFR part 2 may be disclosed publicly by EPA without
prior notice. Submit the non-CBI copy of your objection or hearing
request, identified by docket ID number EPA-HQ-OPP-2012-0908, by one of
the following methods:
Federal eRulemaking Portal: https://www.regulations.gov.
Follow the online instructions for submitting comments. Do not submit
electronically any information you consider to be CBI or other
information whose disclosure is restricted by statute.
Mail: OPP Docket, Environmental Protection Agency Docket
Center (EPA/DC), (28221T), 1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW., Washington, DC
20460-0001.
Hand Delivery: To make special arrangements for hand
delivery or delivery of boxed information, please follow the
instructions at https://www.epa.gov/dockets/contacts.htm. Additional
instructions on commenting or visiting the docket, along with more
information about dockets generally, is available at https://www.epa.gov/dockets.
II. Petition for Exemption
In the Federal Register of February 15, 2013 (78 FR 11129) (FRL-
9378-4), EPA issued a document pursuant to FFDCA section 408, 21 U.S.C.
346a, announcing the filing of a pesticide petition (PP IN-10524) by
Exponent, on behalf of Ecolab, Inc., 370 Wabasha St., St. Paul MN
55102. The petition requested that 40 CFR 180.940(a) be amended by
establishing an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance for
residues of sorbitan monooleate ethylene oxide adduct when used as an
inert ingredient in antimicrobial formulations applied to food-contact
surfaces in public eating places, dairy-processing equipment, and food-
processing equipment and utensils. That document referenced a summary
of the petition prepared by Exponent, the petitioner, which is
available in the docket, https://www.regulations.gov. There were no
comments received in response to the notice of filing.
III. Inert Ingredient Definition
Inert ingredients are all ingredients that are not active
ingredients as defined in 40 CFR 153.125 and include, but are not
limited to, the following types of ingredients (except when they have a
pesticidal efficacy of their own): Solvents such as alcohols and
hydrocarbons; surfactants such as polyoxyethylene polymers and fatty
acids; carriers such as clay and diatomaceous earth; thickeners such as
carrageenan and modified cellulose; wetting, spreading, and dispersing
agents; propellants in aerosol dispensers; microencapsulating agents;
and emulsifiers. The term ``inert'' is not intended to imply
nontoxicity; the ingredient may or may not be chemically active.
Generally, EPA has exempted inert ingredients from the requirement of a
tolerance based on the low toxicity of the individual inert
ingredients.
IV. Aggregate Risk Assessment and Determination of Safety
Section 408(c)(2)(A)(i) of FFDCA allows EPA to establish an
exemption from the requirement for a tolerance (the legal limit for a
pesticide chemical residue in or on a food) only if EPA
[[Page 46262]]
determines that the tolerance is ``safe.'' Section 408(b)(2)(A)(ii) of
FFDCA defines ``safe'' to mean that ``there is a reasonable certainty
that no harm will result from aggregate exposure to the pesticide
chemical residue, including all anticipated dietary exposures and all
other exposures for which there is reliable information.'' This
includes exposure through drinking water and in residential settings,
but does not include occupational exposure. Section 408(b)(2)(C) of
FFDCA requires EPA to give special consideration to exposure of infants
and children to the pesticide chemical residue in establishing a
tolerance and to ``ensure that there is a reasonable certainty that no
harm will result to infants and children from aggregate exposure to the
pesticide chemical residue . . . .''
EPA establishes exemptions from the requirement of a tolerance only
in those cases where it can be clearly demonstrated that the risks from
aggregate exposure to pesticide chemical residues under reasonably
foreseeable circumstances will pose no appreciable risks to human
health. In order to determine the risks from aggregate exposure to
pesticide inert ingredients, the Agency considers the toxicity of the
inert in conjunction with possible exposure to residues of the inert
ingredient through food, drinking water, and through other exposures
that occur as a result of pesticide use in residential settings. If EPA
is able to determine that a finite tolerance is not necessary to ensure
that there is a reasonable certainty that no harm will result from
aggregate exposure to the inert ingredient, an exemption from the
requirement of a tolerance may be established.
Consistent with FFDCA section 408(c)(2)(A), and the factors
specified in FFDCA section 408(c)(2)(B), EPA has reviewed the available
scientific data and other relevant information in support of this
action. EPA has sufficient data to assess the hazards of and to make a
determination on aggregate exposure for sorbitan monooleate ethylene
oxide adduct including exposure resulting from the exemption
established by this action. EPA's assessment of exposures and risks
associated with sorbitan monooleate ethylene oxide adduct follows.
A. Toxicological Profile
EPA has evaluated the available toxicity data and considered their
validity, completeness, and reliability as well as the relationship of
the results of the studies to human risk. EPA has also considered
available information concerning the variability of the sensitivities
of major identifiable subgroups of consumers, including infants and
children. Specific information on the studies received and the nature
of the adverse effects caused by sorbitan monooleate ethylene oxide
adduct as well as the no-observed-adverse-effect-level (NOAEL) and the
lowest-observed-adverse-effect-level (LOAEL) from the toxicity studies
are discussed in this unit.
The acute oral toxicity of sorbitan monooleate ethylene oxide
adduct is low; the LD50 was >25,000 mg/kg in the rat and
mouse. Also, no systemic or adverse effects were observed in rats
following a single oral dose of 22,000 mg/kg/day. Sorbitan monooleate
ethylene oxide adduct did not cause eye irritation in rabbits. It was
not a dermal sensitizer in guinea pigs. Acute dermal toxicity was not
observed in rabbits exposed to sorbitan sesquioleate ethoxylate, a
substance that is closely related to sorbitan monooleate ethylene oxide
adduct.
Sorbitan monooleate ethylene oxide adduct was administered via the
diet to rats in a subchronic toxicity study. Systemic toxicity was not
observed in rats following exposure to 2,500 mg/kg/day of sorbitan
monooleate ethylene oxide adduct in the diet for 13 weeks.
In developmental and reproduction toxicity studies, rats and mice
administered sorbitan monooleate ethylene oxide adduct at doses >10,000
mg/kg/day exhibited toxicity. These doses well exceed the limit dose of
1,000 mg/kg/day.
Available mutagenicity studies included the rec-assay, reverse
mutation assay, chromosome aberration test, a mouse micronucleus assay,
and a dominant lethal test. Sorbitan monooleate ethylene oxide adduct
was negative for inducing mutations and aberrations in all of the
studies. Therefore, sorbitan monooleate ethylene oxide adduct is
considered nonmutagenic.
Evidence of carcinogenicity was not observed in mice. In rats, the
incidence of adrenal medulla malignant and benign pheochromocytoma is
4% and 58%, respectively, in high dose males. The historical control
ranges for malignant and total benign pheochromocytoma are 0-20% and
22-48%, respectively. The incidence of total benign adrenal medulla
pheochromocytoma (29/50, 58%) was marginally increased though not
significantly in high dose (50,000 ppm) males only when compared to
control male rats (21/50, 42%). Nevertheless, the Agency concluded that
the concern for carcinogenicity is low based on the following:
1. The adrenal medulla pheochromocytomas were observed in only one
sex and species at an extremely high dose, 2,500 mg/kg/day, which is in
excess of 2.5 times the limit dose;
2. The increased incidence was observed in benign tumors,
3. The lack of mutagenicity of sorbitan monoleate ethylene oxide
adduct; and
4. General low toxicity of the substance. Therefore, a cancer risk
assessment was not conducted.
Neurotoxicity parameters were evaluated in a reproduction toxicity
study in rats with sorbitan monooleate ethylene oxide adduct. Evidence
of neurotoxicity was not observed.
Although no immunotoxicity studies were available for review, none
of the submitted studies indicated any evidence of immunotoxicity.
A metabolism study in rats showed that sorbitan monooleate ethylene
oxide adduct administered orally is hydrolyzed, poorly absorbed, and
excreted mainly in the feces. Bioaccumulation was not observed.
B. Toxicological Points of Departure/Levels of Concern
The available toxicity studies indicate that sorbitan monooleate
ethylene oxide adduct has very low toxicity. The toxicity database is
consists of toxicity data on subchronic and chronic exposures;
carcinogenicity, developmental, reproduction, mutagenicity and
metabolism. Although a developmental study in rabbits and a dermal
toxicity study are not available, there is no concern for the lack of
these studies. There is no concern for the lack of a developmental
study in rabbits because fetal susceptibility was not observed in the
available developmental and reproduction studies in rats and mice.
Also, toxicity was only observed at doses (>10,000 mg/kg/day) well
above the limit dose.
In regard to the sorbitan monooleate ethylene oxide adduct toxicity
database, the lowest NOAEL (100 mg/kg/day) was observed in a
developmental study in rats where 100 mg/kg/day was the only tested
dose. However, the results in this study were considered unreliable
because the effects were not reproducible in other studies conducted
with the same species, at higher doses and longer exposure. In these
remaining studies, toxicity was observed only at doses >2,500 mg/kg/
day, well above the limit dose of 1,000 mg/kg/day. Therefore, since no
endpoint of concern was identified for the acute and chronic dietary
exposure assessment and short and intermediate dermal and inhalation
exposure, a quantitative risk assessment
[[Page 46263]]
for sorbitan monooleate ethylene oxide adduct is not necessary.
C. Exposure Assessment
1. Dietary exposure from food and feed uses. In evaluating dietary
exposure to sorbitan monooleate ethylene oxide adduct, EPA considered
exposure under the proposed exemption from the requirement of a
tolerance (40 CFR 180.940(a)) and as an inert ingredient used in
pesticide formulations applied to growing crops and animals under the
existing exemptions from the requirement of a tolerance given at 40 CFR
180.910 and 180.930. EPA assessed dietary exposures from sorbitan
monooleate ethylene oxide adduct in food as follows:
Sorbitan monooleate ethylene oxide adducts are used as surfactants,
related adjuvants of surfactants, emulsifiers, buffering agents, and
corrosion inhibitors in a variety of residential pesticide products
including yard, garden, and turf products, as well as in agricultural
crop products, applied to growing crops, raw agricultural commodities
after harvest, and/or to animals. Additionally, they are used
extensively as emulsifiers, stabilizers and thickeners in food,
cosmetics, personal care and medical products, and lubricants.
For the general population, the majority of exposure to sorbitan
monooleate ethylene oxide adduct occurs from the extensive use in
consumer products and as FDA-approved direct and indirect food
additives. Under this exemption from the requirement of a tolerance,
residues of this chemical also may be found on food-contact surfaces,
such as tableware and utensils, and in dairies and beverage- and food-
processing plants. Because no hazard endpoint of concern was identified
for the acute and chronic dietary assessment (food and drinking water),
a quantitative dietary exposure risk assessment was not conducted.
2. Dietary exposure from drinking water. Sorbitan monooleate
ethylene oxide adduct is not expected to be present in drinking water
based on its physical/chemical properties. Further, a hazard endpoint
of concern was not identified for the acute and chronic dietary
assessment; therefore, a quantitative dietary exposure risk assessment
was not conducted.
3. From non-dietary exposure. The term ``residential exposure'' is
used in this document to refer to non-occupational, non-dietary
exposure (e.g., textiles (clothing and diapers), carpets, swimming
pools, and hard surface disinfection on walls, floors, tables). In the
case of sorbitan monooleate ethylene oxide adduct, the request is for
use as an inert ingredient in antimicrobial formulations for use on
food contact surfaces. Sorbitan monooleate ethylene oxide adduct may
also be used in personal care products and in products that are
registered for specific uses that may result in residential exposure.
However, based on the lack of toxicity, a quantitative exposure
assessment from ``residential exposures'' was not performed.
4. Cumulative effects from substances with a common mechanism of
toxicity. Section 408(b)(2)(D)(v) of FFDCA requires that, when
considering whether to establish, modify, or revoke a tolerance, the
Agency consider ``available information'' concerning the cumulative
effects of a particular pesticide's residues and ``other substances
that have a common mechanism of toxicity.''
EPA has not found sorbitan monooleate ethylene oxide adduct to
share a common mechanism of toxicity with any other substances, and
sorbitan monooleate ethylene oxide adduct does not appear to produce a
toxic metabolite produced by other substances. For the purposes of this
tolerance action, therefore, EPA has assumed that sorbitan monooleate
ethylene oxide adduct does not have a common mechanism of toxicity with
other substances. For information regarding EPA's efforts to determine
which chemicals have a common mechanism of toxicity and to evaluate the
cumulative effects of such chemicals, see EPA's Web site at https://www.epa.gov/pesticides/cumulative.
D. Safety Factor for Infants and Children
1. In general. Section 408(b)(2)(C) of FFDCA provides that EPA
shall apply an additional tenfold (10X) margin of safety for infants
and children in the case of threshold effects to account for prenatal
and postnatal toxicity and the completeness of the database on toxicity
and exposure unless EPA determines based on reliable data that a
different margin of safety will be safe for infants and children. This
additional margin of safety is commonly referred to as the FQPA Safety
Factor (SF). In applying this provision, EPA either retains the default
value of 10X, or uses a different additional safety factor when
reliable data available to EPA support the choice of a different
factor.
As part of its qualitative assessment, the Agency did not use
safety factors for assessing risk, and no additional safety factor is
needed for assessing risk to infants and children. The toxicity
database contains several acute and subchronic, carcinogenicity,
development toxicity, reproductive toxicity, and mutagenicity studies.
The available toxicity studies indicate that sorbitan monooleate
ethylene oxide adduct has very low toxicity. The lowest NOAEL (100 mg/
kg/day) was observed in a developmental study where 100 mg/kg/day was
the only tested dose. However, in the remaining studies where more than
one dose was tested, toxicity was observed only at doses >2,500 mg/kg/
day, well above the limit dose of 1,000 mg/kg/day. Further, fetal
toxicity was only observed at doses >10,000 mg/kg/day. Although no
neurotoxicity studies are available for sorbitan monooleate ethylene
oxide adduct, EPA is not concerned for neurotoxic effects because
neurotoxicity was not observed in a developmental study in rats where
neurotoxic parameters were evaluated. Also, although no immunotoxicity
studies are available for sorbitan monooleate ethylene oxide adduct,
none of the submitted studies showed any indications of immunotoxicity.
Thus, there is no residual uncertainty with regard to pre- and post-
natal toxicity of sorbitan monooleate ethylene oxide adduct.
E. Aggregate Risks and Determination of Safety
EPA determines whether acute and chronic dietary pesticide
exposures are safe by comparing aggregate exposure estimates to the
acute PAD (aPAD) and chronic PAD (cPAD). For linear cancer risks, EPA
calculates the lifetime probability of acquiring cancer given the
estimated aggregate exposure. Short-, intermediate-, and chronic-term
risks are evaluated by comparing the estimated aggregate food, water,
and residential exposure to the appropriate PODs to ensure that an
adequate MOE exists.
1. Acute risk. An acute aggregate risk assessment takes into
account acute exposure estimates from dietary consumption of food and
drinking water. No adverse effect resulting from a single oral exposure
was identified and no acute dietary endpoint was selected. Therefore,
sorbitan monooleate ethylene oxide adduct is not expected to pose an
acute risk.
2. Chronic risk. Using the exposure assumptions described in this
unit for chronic exposure, EPA has concluded that based on the lack of
toxicity of sorbitan monooleate ethylene oxide adduct and since no
chronic endpoint was identified, chronic risk is not expected.
[[Page 46264]]
3. Short-term risk. Short-term aggregate exposure takes into
account short-term residential exposure plus chronic exposure to food
and water (considered to be a background exposure level). Because no
short-term adverse effect was identified, sorbitan monooleate ethylene
oxide adduct is not expected to pose a short-term risk.
4. Intermediate-term risk. Intermediate-term aggregate exposure
takes into account intermediate-term residential exposure plus chronic
exposure to food and water (considered to be a background exposure
level). Because no intermediate-term adverse effect was identified,
sorbitan monooleate ethylene oxide adduct is not expected to pose an
intermediate-term risk.
5. Aggregate cancer risk for U.S. population. Based on the
discussion of the potential carcinogenicity of sorbitan monooleate
ethylene oxide adduct in Unit IV.A., sorbitan monooleate ethylene oxide
adduct is not expected to pose a cancer risk.
6. Determination of safety. Based on the lack of concern for hazard
posed by sorbitan monooleate ethylene oxide adduct, EPA concludes that
there is a reasonable certainty that no harm will result to the general
population or to infants and children from aggregate exposure to
sorbitan monooleate ethylene oxide adduct.
V. Other Considerations
A. Analytical Enforcement Methodology
An analytical method is not required for enforcement purposes since
the Agency is establishing an exemption from the requirement of a
tolerance without any numerical limitation.
B. International Residue Limits
In making its tolerance decisions, EPA seeks to harmonize U.S.
tolerances with international standards whenever possible, consistent
with U.S. food safety standards and agricultural practices. EPA
considers the international maximum residue limits (MRLs) established
by the Codex Alimentarius Commission (Codex), as required by FFDCA
section 408(b)(4). The Codex Alimentarius is a joint United Nation 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.
The Codex has not established a MRL for sorbitan monooleate
ethylene oxide adduct.
VI. Conclusions
Therefore, an exemption from the requirement of a tolerance is
established under 40 CFR 180.940(a) for sorbitan, mono-9-octadecenoate,
poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl) derivs., (Z)- (also known as sorbitan
monooleate ethylene oxide adduct) (CAS Reg. No. 9005-65-6) when used as
an inert ingredient (in antimicrobial formulations) applied to food-
contact surfaces in public eating places, dairy-processing equipment,
and food-processing equipment and utensils.
VII. Statutory and Executive Order Reviews
This final rule establishes an exemption from the requirement of a
tolerance under FFDCA section 408(d) in response to a petition
submitted to the Agency. The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has
exempted these types of actions from review under Executive Order
12866, entitled ``Regulatory Planning and Review'' (58 FR 51735,
October 4, 1993). Because this final rule has been exempted from review
under Executive Order 12866, this final rule is not subject to
Executive Order 13211, entitled ``Actions Concerning Regulations That
Significantly Affect Energy Supply, Distribution, or Use'' (66 FR
28355, May 22, 2001) or Executive Order 13045, entitled ``Protection of
Children from Environmental Health Risks and Safety Risks'' (62 FR
19885, April 23, 1997). This final rule does not contain any
information collections subject to OMB approval under the Paperwork
Reduction Act (PRA) (44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.), nor does it require any
special considerations under Executive Order 12898, entitled ``Federal
Actions to Address Environmental Justice in Minority Populations and
Low-Income Populations'' (59 FR 7629, February 16, 1994).
Since tolerances and exemptions that are established on the basis
of a petition under FFDCA section 408(d), such as the exemption to the
requirement of a tolerance in this final rule, do not require the
issuance of a proposed rule, the requirements of the Regulatory
Flexibility Act (RFA) (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.), do not apply.
This final rule directly regulates growers, food processors, food
handlers, and food retailers, not States or tribes, nor does this
action alter the relationships or distribution of power and
responsibilities established by Congress in the preemption provisions
of FFDCA section 408(n)(4). As such, the Agency has determined that
this action will not have a substantial direct effect on States or
tribal governments, on the relationship between the national government
and the States or tribal governments, or on the distribution of power
and responsibilities among the various levels of government or between
the Federal Government and Indian tribes. Thus, the Agency has
determined that Executive Order 13132, entitled ``Federalism'' (64 FR
43255, August 10, 1999) and Executive Order 13175, entitled
``Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal Governments'' (65 FR
67249, November 9, 2000) do not apply to this final rule. In addition,
this final rule does not impose any enforceable duty or contain any
unfunded mandate as described under Title II of the Unfunded Mandates
Reform Act of 1995 (UMRA) (2 U.S.C. 1501 et seq.).
This action does not involve any technical standards that would
require Agency consideration of voluntary consensus standards pursuant
to section 12(d) of the National Technology Transfer and Advancement
Act of 1995 (NTTAA) (15 U.S.C. 272 note).
VIII. Congressional Review Act
Pursuant to the Congressional Review Act (5 U.S.C. 801 et seq.),
EPA will submit a report containing this rule and other required
information to the U.S. Senate, the U.S. House of Representatives, and
the Comptroller General of the United States prior to publication of
the rule in the Federal Register. This action is not a ``major rule''
as defined by 5 U.S.C. 804(2).
List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 180
Environmental protection, Administrative practice and procedure,
Agricultural commodities, Pesticides and pests, Reporting and
recordkeeping requirements.
Dated: July 22, 2013.
Lois Rossi,
Director, Registration Division, Office of Pesticide Programs.
Therefore, 40 CFR chapter I is amended as follows:
PART 180--[AMENDED]
0
1. The authority citation for part 180 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 21 U.S.C. 321(q), 346a and 371.
0
2. In Sec. 180.940, in paragraph (a), alphabetically add the following
inert ingredient to the table to read as follows:
[[Page 46265]]
Sec. 180.940 Tolerance exemptions for active and inert ingredients
for use in antimicrobial formulations (Food-contact surface sanitizing
solutions).
* * * * *
(a) * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------
CAS Reg.
Pesticide chemical No. Limits
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * *
Sorbitan, mono-9-octadecenoate, 9005-65-6 None.
poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl) derivs., (Z)-
.
* * * * *
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * *
[FR Doc. 2013-18188 Filed 7-30-13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6560-50-P