Banda de Lupinus albus doce BLAD; Proposed Pesticide Tolerance, 30640-30644 [2015-12530]
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30640
Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 103 / Friday, May 29, 2015 / Proposed Rules
PART 165—REGULATED NAVIGATION
AREAS AND LIMITED ACCESS AREAS
1. The authority citation for Part 165
continues to read as follows:
■
Authority: 33 U.S.C. 1231; 50 U.S.C. 191;
33 CFR 1.05–1, 6.04–1, 6.04–6, and 160.5;
Department of Homeland Security Delegation
No. 0170.1.
2. Add a new § 165.T0286 to read as
follows:
■
§ 165.T0286 Safety Zone for the Fall River
Grand Prix, Mt. Hope Bay and Taunton
River, Fall River, MA.
(a) Location. The following area is a
safety zone: Mt. Hope Bay and the
Taunton River navigation channel from
approximately Mt. Hope Bay buoy R10
southwest of Brayton Point channel, and
extending approximately two miles to
the northeast up to and including Mt.
Hope Bay buoy C17 north of the Braga
Bridge. The safety zone is encompassed
by the following coordinates:
Latitude
SW ............
NW ............
SE .............
NE .............
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Corner
41°41.40′
41°41.48′
41°42.33′
41°42.42′
Longitude
N.
N.
N.
N.
71°11.15′
71°11.15′
71°09.40′
71°09.47′
W.
W.
W.
W.
(b) Enforcement Period. Vessels will
be prohibited from entering this safety
zone, when enforced, during the Fall
River Grand Prix marine event between
9 a.m. and 5 p.m. from Friday, August
14, 2015 to Sunday, August 16, 2015.
(c) Definitions. The following
definitions apply to this section:
(1) Designated Representative. A
‘‘designated representative’’ is any Coast
Guard commissioned, warrant or petty
officer of the U.S. Coast Guard who has
been designated by the Captain of the
Port, Sector Southeastern New England
(COTP), to act on his or her behalf. The
designated representative may be on an
official patrol vessel or may be on shore
and will communicate with vessels via
VHF–FM radio or loudhailer. In
addition, members of the Coast Guard
Auxiliary may be present to inform
vessel operators of this regulation.
(2) Official Patrol Vessels. Official
patrol vessels may consist of any Coast
Guard, Coast Guard Auxiliary, state, or
local law enforcement vessels assigned
or approved by the COTP.
(3) Patrol Commander. The Coast
Guard may patrol each safety zone
under the direction of a designated
Coast Guard Patrol Commander. The
Patrol Commander may be contacted on
Channel 16 VHF–FM (156.8 MHz) by
the call sign ‘‘PATCOM.’’
(4) Spectators. All persons and vessels
not registered with the event sponsor as
participants or official patrol vessels.
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(d) Regulations. (1) The general
regulations contained in 33 CFR 165.23
as well as the following regulations
apply to the safety zone established in
conjunction with the Fall River Grand
Prix, Taunton River, vicinity of Fall
River, MA. These regulations may be
enforced for the duration of the event.
(2) No later than 8 a.m. each day of
the event, the Coast Guard will
announce via Safety Marine Information
Broadcasts and local media the times
and duration of each race scheduled for
that day, and the precise area(s) of the
safety zone that will be enforced.
(3) Vessels may not transit through or
within the safety zone during periods of
enforcement without Patrol Commander
approval. Vessels permitted to transit
must operate at a no-wake speed, in a
manner which will not endanger
participants or other crafts in the event.
(4) Spectators or other vessels shall
not anchor, block, loiter, or impede the
movement of event participants or
official patrol vessels in the safety zone
unless authorized by an official patrol
vessel.
(5) The Patrol Commander may
control the movement of all vessels in
the safety zone. When hailed or signaled
by an official patrol vessel, a vessel shall
come to an immediate stop and comply
with the lawful directions issued.
Failure to comply with a lawful
direction may result in expulsion from
the area, citation for failure to comply,
or both.
(6) The Patrol Commander may delay
or terminate the Fall River Grand Prix
at any time to ensure safety. Such action
may be justified as a result of weather,
traffic density, spectator operation or
participant behavior.
[FR Doc. 2015–12736 Filed 5–28–15; 8:45 am]
for a tolerance for residues of banda de
Lupinus albus doce (BLAD) in or on all
food commodities. In its place, EPA
proposes to establish a tolerance
limiting residues of BLAD to 0.005 parts
per million (ppm) in or on almonds,
grapes, strawberries and tomatoes. The
Agency is undertaking this action under
the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic
Act (FFDCA).
DATES: Comments must be received on
or before July 28, 2015.
ADDRESSES: Submit your comments,
identified by docket identification (ID)
number EPA–HQ–OPP–2015–0230, 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
Confidential Business Information (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.html.
Additional instructions on
commenting or visiting the docket,
along with more information about
dockets generally, is available at
https://www.epa.gov/dockets.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Robert McNally, Director, Biopesticides
and Pollution Prevention Division
(7511P), Office of Pesticide Programs,
Environmental Protection Agency, 1200
Pennsylvania Ave. NW., Washington,
DC 20460–0001; main telephone
number: (703) 305–7090; email address:
BPPDFRNotices@epa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
BILLING CODE 9110–04–P
I. General Information
Dated: May 8, 2015.
J.T. Kondratowicz,
Captain, U.S. Coast Guard, Captain of the
Port Southeastern New England.
A. Does this action apply to me?
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
AGENCY
40 CFR Part 180
[EPA–HQ–OPP–2015–0230; FRL–9927–02]
RIN 2070–ZA16
Banda de Lupinus albus doce BLAD;
Proposed Pesticide Tolerance
Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA).
ACTION: Proposed rule.
AGENCY:
EPA proposes to revoke the
current exemption from the requirement
SUMMARY:
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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).
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Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 103 / Friday, May 29, 2015 / Proposed Rules
• Pesticide manufacturing (NAICS
code 32532).
B. What should I consider as I prepare
my comments for EPA?
1. Submitting CBI. Do not submit this
information to EPA through
regulations.gov or email. Clearly mark
the part or all of the information that
you claim to be CBI. For CBI
information on a disk or CD–ROM that
you mail to EPA, mark the outside of the
disk or CD–ROM as CBI and then
identify electronically within the disk or
CD–ROM the specific information that
is claimed as CBI. In addition, to one
complete version of the comment that
includes information claimed as CBI, a
copy of the comment that does not
contain the information claimed as CBI
must be submitted for inclusion in the
public docket. Information so marked
will not be disclosed except in
accordance with procedures set forth in
40 CFR part 2.
2. Tips for preparing your comments.
When preparing and submitting your
comments, see the commenting tips at
https://www.epa.gov/dockets/
comments.html.
II. This Proposal
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A. What is the authority for this action?
EPA is taking this action under
section 408(e) the FFDCA, 21 U.S.C.
346a(e), which allows EPA to initiate a
tolerance action under FFDCA section
408, 21 U.S.C. 346a et seq. FFDCA
section 408(b)(2)(A)(i) allows EPA to
establish a tolerance (the legal limit for
a pesticide chemical residue in or on a
food) only if EPA determines that the
tolerance is ‘‘safe.’’ FFDCA section
408(b)(2)(A)(ii) 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.
FFDCA section 408(b)(2)(C) 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 . . .’’
Section 408(c)(2)(A)(ii) contains the
same safety standard for establishing or
leaving in effect an exemption from the
requirement of a tolerance. Section
408(c)(2)(A)(i) requires the Agency to
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modify or revoke an exemption if the
Agency determines it is not safe.
EPA performs a number of analyses to
determine the risks from aggregate
exposure to pesticide residues. For
further discussion of the regulatory
requirements of FFDCA section 408 and
a complete description of the risk
assessment process, see https://
www.epa.gov/pesticides/regulating/
tolerances.htm.
B. What action is the Agency taking?
EPA, on its own initiative under
FFDCA section 408(c)(1)(B), is
proposing to revoke the existing
exemption from the requirement of a
tolerance for residues of the fungicide
BLAD in or on all food commodities as
established in the Federal Register of
March 22, 2013 (78 FR 17600) (FRL–
9380–6). In addition, EPA is proposing
to establish a tolerance under FFDCA
section 408(e) for residues of the
fungicide BLAD, in or on almonds,
grapes, strawberries, and tomatoes at the
level of detection of 0.005 ppm.
EPA is taking this action in response
to concerns that were raised by the
Federal Drug Administration (FDA)
about the potential allergenicity of
BLAD for peanut-sensitive individuals
following EPA’s promulgation of the
tolerance exemption of BLAD on all
food commodities. Based on the
potential uncertainty raised by those
concerns, EPA sought additional data
from the petitioner and reexamined the
safety of the BLAD tolerance exemption.
Following an assessment of the
additional data that was provided, EPA
has concluded that the available data
supports establishing a more limited
tolerance at the level of detection on
specific commodities.
III. Regulatory Background
In the Federal Register of March 22,
2013, EPA established a tolerance
exemption for residues of BLAD in or on
all food commodities when applied as a
fungicide and used in accordance with
label directions and good agricultural
practices. EPA established this tolerance
exemption following the receipt of a
petition from Consumo Em Verde S.A,
Biotecnologia De Plantas, Parque
Technologico de Cantanhede (CEV) in
2012. All of the data requirements to
support the exemption from the
requirement of a tolerance were
fulfilled, and following an assessment of
all available data, EPA concluded that
there was a reasonable certainty that no
harm will result to the U.S. population,
including infants and children, from
aggregate exposure to residues of BLAD.
Following EPA’s establishment of a
tolerance exemption for residues of
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BLAD on all food commodities, FDA
raised concerns about the potential
allergenicity of the BLAD protein for
peanut-sensitive individuals. EPA’s
original review of the data in support of
the establishment of a tolerance
exemption had considered BLAD’s
potential allergenicity and concluded
that the use of BLAD as pesticide would
not result in any meaningful exposure to
human health and the environment
based on the following considerations.
First, because lupines are commonly
used in human and animal nutrition as
a food and feed, EPA concluded that
any dietary contribution from use of
BLAD as a pesticide would be relatively
limited. Second, the weight of evidence
regarding the BLAD protein suggested
low risk for allergenicity concerns upon
application of the criteria set by the
Codex Alimentarius (2003) and the
Food and Agricultural Organizations of
the United Nations/World Health
Organization (FAO/WHO) (2001):
• Amino acid homology: Having an
amino acid residue similarity of greater
than 35% over a sequence of 80 amino
acids of a known allergenic protein (Ara
h 1). Residues 5 to 169 in BLAD exhibit
a 58% sequence homology when
compared to residues 148 to 312 in Ara
h 1, which is similar to other legume
seed storage proteins;
• Having one or more sets of more
than 6 contiguous amino acid residues
that are identical to amino acids of a
known allergenic protein. BLAD
contains only one stretch of contiguous
amino acid residues identical to Ara h
1; as a comparison there are 2 in lupine
and bean vicilin, 3 in pea and broad
bean vicilin, and 5 in soybeans. This
observation suggests a more likely
presence of IgE recognition epitopes on
the vicilins rather than on BLAD;
• Serum cross-reactivity to known
allergens: Moneret-Vautrin et al., 1999
found that although peanut-lupine
cross-reactivity allergenic potential is
high, it presumably corresponds to
lupine g-conglutin and not to lupine bconglutin, the precursor of BLAD;
• Pepsin resistance: BLAD is readily
degraded by proteolytic enzymes and
• Expression levels: Using
immunological methods, residual levels
of BLAD were not detectable 18 hours
after application to tomatoes, relative to
controls.
This information was used by the EPA
to conclude that BLAD is not likely to
be an allergen.
Nonetheless, FDA expressed concerns
about the potential allergenicity of
BLAD because lupine is known to incite
food allergy in sensitive individuals and
because of reports of cross-reactivity to
lupine protein in peanut sensitive
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individuals. In response to these newly
raised concerns, EPA decided to
investigate further the issues raised by
FDA and seek additional data, including
a skin prick (in vivo) test on Ara h 1
peanut/lupine sensitive individuals and
an in vitro immunological testing on
serum from Ara h 1 peanut/lupine
sensitive individuals. The focus on Ara
h 1 sensitive individuals is due to the
similarity of the b-conglutin parent
molecule of BLAD to the Ara h 1
allergen and reports of cross reactivity
in peanut-sensitive individuals to
lupine protein.
In addition, EPA required residue
chemistry field trials conducted on
crops listed on the proposed pesticide
label using PROBLAD PLUS, the enduse pesticide containing the BLAD
protein, at label rates and exaggerated
application rates (5X) to establish a rate
of decline and residue levels of BLAD
on crops tested. Upon receipt of all the
new information, EPA reexamined the
safety of BLAD.
IV. Aggregate Risk Assessment and
Determination of Safety
A. EPA’s Safety Determination
EPA has evaluated the available
toxicity and exposure data and
considered its validity, completeness,
and reliability, as well as the
relationship of the results of the studies
to human risk. Based upon that
evaluation, 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 BLAD residues under the
tolerance proposed in this action.
EPA’s assessment of exposures and
risks associated with BLAD is discussed
in this unit of the document.
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B. Toxicological Profile
EPA has evaluated the available
toxicity data and considered its 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.
BLAD is a naturally occurring 20 kilo
Dalton (kDa) polypeptide fragment of
b-conglutin, a main storage protein in
the flowering plant sweet lupines
(Lupinus albus). BLAD protein is
produced by breakdown of b-conglutin
during day 4 to 12 of the germination
process of the sweet lupines. Data
submitted and reviewed by the Agency
demonstrate that BLAD operates in a
non-toxic manner. BLAD, which is used
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as a fungicide, degrades chitin by
catalyzing and successfully removing
the N-acetyl-D-glucosamine terminal
monomers, resulting in the destruction
of the fungal cells. There is a history of
safe use in human and livestock
consumption; however, there may be a
potential for allergenicity with some
sensitive populations.
All of the toxicity data requirements
have been fulfilled. EPA has concluded
that the data are acceptable and no
additional data are required. Data on the
end-use product, PROBLAD PLUS,
containing BLAD as its active
ingredient, did not indicate toxicity
endpoints. The toxicological
information showed that PROBLAD
PLUS has a low toxicity profile as noted
in the test results for the following
studies: Acute Oral Lowest Dose (LD)50
> 5,000 milligram/kilogram (mg/kg);
Acute Dermal LD50 > 2,000 mg/kg;
Acute Inhalation LC50 > 5.34 milligram/
Liter (mg/L); Primary Eye Irritation was
slight; Primary Dermal Irritation was
mild to slight; and PROBLAD PLUS is
not a contact dermal sensitizer.
Moreover, there are no known effects on
endocrine systems via oral, dermal, or
inhalation exposure. Therefore, the
Agency concludes that there are no
toxicity risks with BLAD.
As noted in Unit III., EPA reexamined the potential allergenicity of
BLAD because of the concern raised
about potential sensitivity of peanutsensitive individuals. The following
observations raised new questions about
the potential for BLAD to pose an
allergenicity concern:
1. BLAD comprises an internal
segment of b-conglutin;
2. b-conglutin exhibits a relatively
strong homology to the other members
of the vicillin family, including wellknown allergens contained in peanuts
and soybeans (specifically Ara h 1); and
3. There are a considerable number of
studies concerning the allergenicity of
lupine-derived products.
EPA then evaluated the reactivity to
BLAD in sensitive individuals.
A Skin Prick Test (SPT) with lupine
or peanut extracts in order to establish
a sampling population that was
sensitive to lupines and/or peanuts was
submitted to the Agency. The serum
from a sensitive population that tested
positive to lupine/peanut exposure
through a SPT was used to evaluate the
capacity of cross-reactivity to BLAD in
these sensitive individuals. Negative
results to BLAD in IgE-specific in vitro
immunoblot (ELISA) testing on serum
from sensitive individuals, suggest that
the compound is non-allergenic to
lupine and/or peanut-sensitive
individuals.
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Allergenicity relates to both a
sensitizing exposure (sensitization
leading to allergy cannot occur to a
protein without a prior exposure) and a
subsequent acute effect if allergy
develops (a single exposure in a
sensitive individual will cause a
response). The difficulty with assessing
allergenicity relates to determining a
threshold level of exposure below
which there is no reasonable
expectation of eliciting a reaction in a
sensitive individual. Although the new
allergenicity data suggest that BLAD is
not an allergen, the existing exemption
from the requirement of a tolerance
allows any amount of residue that might
result from reasonably foreseeable uses
of BLAD as a fungicide. In light of the
similarity of BLAD to peanut allergens
and documented allergies to lupines in
the literature, the Agency believes the
safety of BLAD also depends on
demonstrating no detectable residues, in
the absence of a demonstrated threshold
level.
Specific information on the studies
received and EPA’s assessment of them
can be found at https://
www.regulations.gov in docket ID
number EPA–HQ–OPP–2015–0230.
C. Toxicological Points of Departure/
Levels of Concern
Based on the available toxicity and
allergenicity data, the Agency did not
identify any toxicological points of
departure or levels of concern.
Nevertheless, due the potential for
allergenicity that might arise under the
current exemption due to potentially
unlimited exposure to residues of
BLAD, the Agency is relying on data
supporting a lack of exposure to BLAD
residues on certain crops. Therefore, the
Agency is conducting a qualitative
assessment based on a lack of residues.
D. Exposure Assessment
1. Dietary exposure from food and
feed uses. The dietary exposure to
residues of BLAD via pesticidal use is
expected to be negligible as, based on
available residue data, the residues are
below the level of detection.
Due to the potential for allergenicity,
field trials using PROBLAD PLUS at the
product-labeled application rate and an
exaggerated application rate (5X) were
submitted in order to determine levels
of potential exposure and the rate of
BLAD residue degradation. Those
studies, conducted on grapes, tomatoes
and strawberries, showed that even with
multiple consecutive applications at
exaggerated application rates, the
residue levels of BLAD will be
negligible or non-existent. Both studies
(involving label and exaggerated
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application rates) showed similar
residue measurements and a similar
pattern with a half-life of about 2 days.
At label application rates, grape and
strawberry samples showed no
detectable residues (< limit of detection
(LOD), 0.005 ppm) of BLAD on day zero;
tomato samples showed BLAD residues
< limit of quantitation (LOQ) (0.0062
ppm) on day zero but declined to < LOD
levels one day after application. To
ensure the reduction of any available
residues, a one-day pre-harvest interval
on PROBLAD PLUS labeling is being
required.
Additionally, due to the presence of
an almond husk and the subsequent
processing of almond nut meats, the
pre-harvest use of BLAD on almonds
following good agricultural practices
does not represent any reasonable
possibility of resulting in detectable
residues on the edible nut.
2. Dietary exposure from drinking
water. Pesticide residues in drinking
water are not expected because BLAD
residues degrade rapidly in the
environment. Specific information on
the studies received and EPA’s
assessment of them can be found at
https://www.regulations.gov in docket ID
number EPA–HQ–OPP–2015–0230.
3. From non-dietary exposure. The
term ‘‘residential exposure’’ is used in
this document to refer to nonoccupational, non-dietary exposure
(e.g., for lawn and garden pest control,
indoor pest control, termiticides, and
flea and tick control on pets). BLAD is
not registered for any specific use
patterns that would result in residential
exposure.
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 BLAD to share a
common mechanism of toxicity with
any other substances, and BLAD does
not appear to degrade into any toxic
metabolite or other substance of
concern. For the purposes of this
tolerance action, therefore, EPA has
assumed that BLAD 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
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https://www.epa.gov/pesticides/
cumulative.
D. Safety Factor for Infants and
Children
FFDCA section 408(b)(2)(C) provides
that, in considering the establishment of
a tolerance or tolerance exemption for a
pesticide chemical residue, 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 that a different
margin of safety will be safe for infants
and children. This additional margin of
safety is commonly referred to as the
Food Quality Protection Act Safety
Factor (FQPA SF). In applying this
provision, EPA either retains the default
value of 10X, or uses a different
additional safety factor when reliable
data are available to support the choice
of a different safety factor.
As part of its qualitative assessment,
the Agency did not use safety factors for
assessing risk; therefore, no additional
safety factor is needed for assessing risk
to infants and children. The available
data indicate that BLAD has minimal or
no toxicity and is not an allergen,
especially in combination with the data
demonstrating a lack of exposure from
application as a pesticide. EPA therefore
concludes that there are no threshold
effects of concern to infants, children, or
adults when BLAD is applied as a
fungicide and used in accordance with
label directions and good agricultural
practices.
E. Aggregate Risks and Determination of
Safety
Taking into consideration all available
information on BLAD, EPA concludes
that the potential for allergenicity of
BLAD introduces a reasonable
uncertainty concerning the potential for
harm to peanut-sensitive individuals in
light of the possibility for unlimited
exposure to BLAD that might be
permitted under an unlimited
exemption from the requirement of a
tolerance. To address that potential
uncertainty, EPA is proposing to revoke
the current tolerance exemption for
BLAD in 40 CFR 180.1319. In its place,
and in consideration of these potential
concerns, EPA is proposing to establish
a more limited tolerance of 0.005 ppm
for residues of BLAD in or on almonds,
grapes, strawberries, and tomatoes. This
is based on crop-specific residue data on
grapes, strawberries, and tomatoes that
demonstrates a lack of residues on those
specific crops. Additionally, due to the
presence of an almond husk and the
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subsequent processing of almond nut
meats, the pre-harvest use of BLAD on
almonds following good agricultural
practices does not represent any
reasonable possibility of resulting in
detectable residues on the edible nut.
Therefore, under this more limited
scenario, EPA concludes that there is a
reasonable certainty that no harm will
result to the U.S. population, including
infants and children, from aggregate
exposure to the residues of BLAD when
it is applied as fungicide to the
specifically noted crops and used in
accordance with label directions and
good agricultural practices. Such
exposure includes all anticipated
dietary exposures and all other
exposures for which there is reliable
information. Based on this information,
EPA expects that, when used according
to the proposed label directions, the
tolerance for residues of BLAD on the
listed commodities is safe, and no
adverse effects such as allergenic
reactions are expected to occur.
V. Other Considerations
A. Analytical Enforcement Methodology
Adequate enforcement methodology
(Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay
(ELISA: EASI Method No: RA029 and
RA031) is available to enforce the
tolerance expression.
The method may be requested from:
Chief, Analytical Chemistry Branch,
Environmental Science Center, 701
Mapes Rd., Ft. Meade, MD 20755–5350;
telephone number: (410) 305–2905;
email address: residuemethods@
epa.gov.
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 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.
The Codex has not established a MRL
for BLAD.
E:\FR\FM\29MYP1.SGM
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30644
Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 103 / Friday, May 29, 2015 / Proposed Rules
C. Trade Considerations
The revocation of the existing
tolerance exemption and establishment
of tolerances for four commodities is a
reduction in allowable residues of
BLAD on food. Therefore, EPA intends
to provide notice to the World Trade
Organization (WTO) of this proposal in
accordance with its obligations under
the WTO’s Sanitary and Phytosanitary
Measures Agreement.
VI. Conclusion
EPA proposes to revoke the existing
tolerance exemption for residues of
BLAD in or on all food commodities as
established in the Federal Register of
March 22, 2013 under section 408 of the
FFDCA due to potential allergenicity
concerns. In its stead, the Agency
proposes to establish a tolerance for
residues of BLAD in or on almonds,
grapes, strawberries, and tomatoes at the
level of detection of 0.005 ppm based on
BLAD’s low toxicity profile, testing that
indicated that BLAD is non-allergenic,
and residue data that demonstrated a
rapid decline of BLAD following
application at an exaggerated rate.
Therefore, EPA is proposing to establish
a tolerance level at the limit of detection
for the analytical method to prevent any
exposure to sensitive individuals from
potential residues of BLAD on the
treated crops.
Lhorne on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS
VII. Statutory and Executive Order
Reviews
This proposed action would revoke an
existing exemption from the
requirement of a tolerance and establish
new tolerances under FFDCA section
408(e). The Office of Management and
Budget (OMB) has exempted tolerance
actions from review under Executive
Orders 12866, entitled Regulatory
Planning and Review (58 FR 51735,
October 4, 1993), and 13563, entitled
Improving Regulation and Regulatory
Review (76 FR 3821, January 21, 2011).
As a result, this action 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). Nor does it require OMB
review or any Agency action under
Executive Order 13045, entitled
Protection of Children from
Environmental Health Risks and Safety
Risks (62 FR 19885, April 23, 1997).
This action does not contain any
information collections subject to OMB
approval under the Paperwork
Reduction Act (PRA) (44 U.S.C. 3501 et
seq.); require any special considerations
under Executive Order 12898, entitled
Federal Actions to Address
VerDate Sep<11>2014
14:18 May 28, 2015
Jkt 235001
Environmental Justice in Minority
Populations and Low-Income
Populations (59 FR 7629, February 16,
1994); and 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
(NTTAA) (15 U.S.C. 272 note).
This action directly regulates growers,
food processors, food handlers, and food
retailers, but it does not regulate State
or tribal governments. Nor does this
action alter the relationships or
distribution of power and
responsibilities established in the
preemption provisions of FFDCA
section 408(n)(4). Therefore, the Agency
has determined that Executive Orders
13132, entitled Federalism (64 FR
43255, August 10, 1999) and 13175,
entitled Consultation and Coordination
with Indian Tribal Governments (65 FR
67249, November 9, 2000) do not apply
to this action. In addition, this action
does not impose any enforceable duty,
contain any unfunded mandate, or
otherwise significantly or uniquely
affect small governments as described in
the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act
(UMRA) (2 U.S.C. 1501 et seq.).
Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act
(RFA) (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.), I certify that
this action will not have significant
economic impact on a substantial
number of small entities. In making this
determination, the impact of concern is
any significant adverse economic
impact on small entities. An agency may
certify that a rule will not have a
significant economic impact on a
substantial number of small entities if
the action will not impose any
requirements on small entities. There
are not a substantial number of small
entities affected by this rule. BLAD,
which is currently manufactured only
by CEV, is not being used as a pesticide
on food at this time. Therefore, this
action will not impose any requirements
or have a significant impact on a
substantial number of small entities. We
have therefore concluded that this
action will not impact small entities.
List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 180
Environmental protection,
Administrative practice and procedure,
Agricultural commodities, Pesticides
and pests, Reporting and recordkeeping
requirements.
Dated: March 13, 2015.
Jack Housenger,
Director, Office of Pesticide Programs.
Therefore, it is proposed that 40 CFR
chapter I be amended as follows:
PO 00000
Frm 00013
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
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.
3. Section 180.683 is added to read as
follows:
■
§ 180.683 Banda de Lupinus albus doce;
tolerances for residues.
(a) General. Tolerances are
established for residues of the fungicide
banda de Lupinus albus doce (BLAD),
including its metabolites and
degradates, in or on the commodities in
the table below as a result of the
application of BLAD. Compliance with
the tolerance levels specified below is to
be determined by measuring only BLAD
in or on the following commodities.
Commodity
Parts per
million
Almonds ......................................
Grapes ........................................
Strawberries ................................
Tomatoes ....................................
0.005
0.005
0.005
0.005
(a) Section 18 emergency exemptions.
[Reserved]
(b) Tolerances with regional
registrations. [Reserved]
(c) Indirect or inadvertent residues.
[Reserved]
§ 180.1319
[Removed and Reserved]
■ 3. Remove and reserve § 180.1319.
[FR Doc. 2015–12530 Filed 5–28–15; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE P
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
AGENCY
40 CFR Chapter I
[EPA–HQ–OPP–2014–0818; FRL–9927–36]
Proposal To Mitigate Exposure to Bees
From Acutely Toxic Pesticide
Products; Notice of Availability
Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA).
ACTION: Notice.
AGENCY:
EPA is seeking comment on a
proposal to adopt mandatory pesticide
label restrictions to protect managed
bees under contract pollination services
from foliar application of pesticides that
are acutely toxic to bees on a contact
exposure basis. These label restrictions
would prohibit applications of pesticide
products, which are acutely toxic to
bees, during bloom when bees are
known to be present under contract.
EPA is also seeking comment on a
proposal to rely on efforts made by
states and tribes to reduce pesticide
SUMMARY:
E:\FR\FM\29MYP1.SGM
29MYP1
Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 80, Number 103 (Friday, May 29, 2015)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 30640-30644]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2015-12530]
=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
40 CFR Part 180
[EPA-HQ-OPP-2015-0230; FRL-9927-02]
RIN 2070-ZA16
Banda de Lupinus albus doce BLAD; Proposed Pesticide Tolerance
AGENCY: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
ACTION: Proposed rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: EPA proposes to revoke the current exemption from the
requirement for a tolerance for residues of banda de Lupinus albus doce
(BLAD) in or on all food commodities. In its place, EPA proposes to
establish a tolerance limiting residues of BLAD to 0.005 parts per
million (ppm) in or on almonds, grapes, strawberries and tomatoes. The
Agency is undertaking this action under the Federal Food, Drug, and
Cosmetic Act (FFDCA).
DATES: Comments must be received on or before July 28, 2015.
ADDRESSES: Submit your comments, identified by docket identification
(ID) number EPA-HQ-OPP-2015-0230, 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 Confidential Business
Information (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.html.
Additional instructions on commenting or visiting the docket, along
with more information about dockets generally, is available at https://www.epa.gov/dockets.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Robert McNally, Director,
Biopesticides and Pollution Prevention Division (7511P), Office of
Pesticide Programs, Environmental Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania
Ave. NW., Washington, DC 20460-0001; main telephone number: (703) 305-
7090; email address: BPPDFRNotices@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).
[[Page 30641]]
Pesticide manufacturing (NAICS code 32532).
B. What should I consider as I prepare my comments for EPA?
1. Submitting CBI. Do not submit this information to EPA through
regulations.gov or email. Clearly mark the part or all of the
information that you claim to be CBI. For CBI information on a disk or
CD-ROM that you mail to EPA, mark the outside of the disk or CD-ROM as
CBI and then identify electronically within the disk or CD-ROM the
specific information that is claimed as CBI. In addition, to one
complete version of the comment that includes information claimed as
CBI, a copy of the comment that does not contain the information
claimed as CBI must be submitted for inclusion in the public docket.
Information so marked will not be disclosed except in accordance with
procedures set forth in 40 CFR part 2.
2. Tips for preparing your comments. When preparing and submitting
your comments, see the commenting tips at https://www.epa.gov/dockets/comments.html.
II. This Proposal
A. What is the authority for this action?
EPA is taking this action under section 408(e) the FFDCA, 21 U.S.C.
346a(e), which allows EPA to initiate a tolerance action under FFDCA
section 408, 21 U.S.C. 346a et seq. FFDCA section 408(b)(2)(A)(i)
allows EPA to establish a tolerance (the legal limit for a pesticide
chemical residue in or on a food) only if EPA determines that the
tolerance is ``safe.'' FFDCA section 408(b)(2)(A)(ii) 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.
FFDCA section 408(b)(2)(C) 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 . .
.''
Section 408(c)(2)(A)(ii) contains the same safety standard for
establishing or leaving in effect an exemption from the requirement of
a tolerance. Section 408(c)(2)(A)(i) requires the Agency to modify or
revoke an exemption if the Agency determines it is not safe.
EPA performs a number of analyses to determine the risks from
aggregate exposure to pesticide residues. For further discussion of the
regulatory requirements of FFDCA section 408 and a complete description
of the risk assessment process, see https://www.epa.gov/pesticides/regulating/tolerances.htm.
B. What action is the Agency taking?
EPA, on its own initiative under FFDCA section 408(c)(1)(B), is
proposing to revoke the existing exemption from the requirement of a
tolerance for residues of the fungicide BLAD in or on all food
commodities as established in the Federal Register of March 22, 2013
(78 FR 17600) (FRL-9380-6). In addition, EPA is proposing to establish
a tolerance under FFDCA section 408(e) for residues of the fungicide
BLAD, in or on almonds, grapes, strawberries, and tomatoes at the level
of detection of 0.005 ppm.
EPA is taking this action in response to concerns that were raised
by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) about the potential
allergenicity of BLAD for peanut-sensitive individuals following EPA's
promulgation of the tolerance exemption of BLAD on all food
commodities. Based on the potential uncertainty raised by those
concerns, EPA sought additional data from the petitioner and reexamined
the safety of the BLAD tolerance exemption. Following an assessment of
the additional data that was provided, EPA has concluded that the
available data supports establishing a more limited tolerance at the
level of detection on specific commodities.
III. Regulatory Background
In the Federal Register of March 22, 2013, EPA established a
tolerance exemption for residues of BLAD in or on all food commodities
when applied as a fungicide and used in accordance with label
directions and good agricultural practices. EPA established this
tolerance exemption following the receipt of a petition from Consumo Em
Verde S.A, Biotecnologia De Plantas, Parque Technologico de Cantanhede
(CEV) in 2012. All of the data requirements to support the exemption
from the requirement of a tolerance were fulfilled, and following an
assessment of all available data, EPA concluded that there was a
reasonable certainty that no harm will result to the U.S. population,
including infants and children, from aggregate exposure to residues of
BLAD.
Following EPA's establishment of a tolerance exemption for residues
of BLAD on all food commodities, FDA raised concerns about the
potential allergenicity of the BLAD protein for peanut-sensitive
individuals. EPA's original review of the data in support of the
establishment of a tolerance exemption had considered BLAD's potential
allergenicity and concluded that the use of BLAD as pesticide would not
result in any meaningful exposure to human health and the environment
based on the following considerations. First, because lupines are
commonly used in human and animal nutrition as a food and feed, EPA
concluded that any dietary contribution from use of BLAD as a pesticide
would be relatively limited. Second, the weight of evidence regarding
the BLAD protein suggested low risk for allergenicity concerns upon
application of the criteria set by the Codex Alimentarius (2003) and
the Food and Agricultural Organizations of the United Nations/World
Health Organization (FAO/WHO) (2001):
Amino acid homology: Having an amino acid residue
similarity of greater than 35% over a sequence of 80 amino acids of a
known allergenic protein (Ara h 1). Residues 5 to 169 in BLAD exhibit a
58% sequence homology when compared to residues 148 to 312 in Ara h 1,
which is similar to other legume seed storage proteins;
Having one or more sets of more than 6 contiguous amino
acid residues that are identical to amino acids of a known allergenic
protein. BLAD contains only one stretch of contiguous amino acid
residues identical to Ara h 1; as a comparison there are 2 in lupine
and bean vicilin, 3 in pea and broad bean vicilin, and 5 in soybeans.
This observation suggests a more likely presence of IgE recognition
epitopes on the vicilins rather than on BLAD;
Serum cross-reactivity to known allergens: Moneret-Vautrin
et al., 1999 found that although peanut-lupine cross-reactivity
allergenic potential is high, it presumably corresponds to lupine
[gamma]-conglutin and not to lupine [beta]-conglutin, the precursor of
BLAD;
Pepsin resistance: BLAD is readily degraded by proteolytic
enzymes and
Expression levels: Using immunological methods, residual
levels of BLAD were not detectable 18 hours after application to
tomatoes, relative to controls.
This information was used by the EPA to conclude that BLAD is not
likely to be an allergen.
Nonetheless, FDA expressed concerns about the potential
allergenicity of BLAD because lupine is known to incite food allergy in
sensitive individuals and because of reports of cross-reactivity to
lupine protein in peanut sensitive
[[Page 30642]]
individuals. In response to these newly raised concerns, EPA decided to
investigate further the issues raised by FDA and seek additional data,
including a skin prick (in vivo) test on Ara h 1 peanut/lupine
sensitive individuals and an in vitro immunological testing on serum
from Ara h 1 peanut/lupine sensitive individuals. The focus on Ara h 1
sensitive individuals is due to the similarity of the [beta]-conglutin
parent molecule of BLAD to the Ara h 1 allergen and reports of cross
reactivity in peanut-sensitive individuals to lupine protein.
In addition, EPA required residue chemistry field trials conducted
on crops listed on the proposed pesticide label using PROBLAD PLUS, the
end-use pesticide containing the BLAD protein, at label rates and
exaggerated application rates (5X) to establish a rate of decline and
residue levels of BLAD on crops tested. Upon receipt of all the new
information, EPA reexamined the safety of BLAD.
IV. Aggregate Risk Assessment and Determination of Safety
A. EPA's Safety Determination
EPA has evaluated the available toxicity and exposure data and
considered its validity, completeness, and reliability, as well as the
relationship of the results of the studies to human risk. Based upon
that evaluation, 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 BLAD residues under the tolerance
proposed in this action.
EPA's assessment of exposures and risks associated with BLAD is
discussed in this unit of the document.
B. Toxicological Profile
EPA has evaluated the available toxicity data and considered its
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.
BLAD is a naturally occurring 20 kilo Dalton (kDa) polypeptide
fragment of [beta]-conglutin, a main storage protein in the flowering
plant sweet lupines (Lupinus albus). BLAD protein is produced by
breakdown of [beta]-conglutin during day 4 to 12 of the germination
process of the sweet lupines. Data submitted and reviewed by the Agency
demonstrate that BLAD operates in a non-toxic manner. BLAD, which is
used as a fungicide, degrades chitin by catalyzing and successfully
removing the N-acetyl-D-glucosamine terminal monomers, resulting in the
destruction of the fungal cells. There is a history of safe use in
human and livestock consumption; however, there may be a potential for
allergenicity with some sensitive populations.
All of the toxicity data requirements have been fulfilled. EPA has
concluded that the data are acceptable and no additional data are
required. Data on the end-use product, PROBLAD PLUS, containing BLAD as
its active ingredient, did not indicate toxicity endpoints. The
toxicological information showed that PROBLAD PLUS has a low toxicity
profile as noted in the test results for the following studies: Acute
Oral Lowest Dose (LD)50 > 5,000 milligram/kilogram (mg/kg);
Acute Dermal LD50 > 2,000 mg/kg; Acute Inhalation
LC50 > 5.34 milligram/Liter (mg/L); Primary Eye Irritation
was slight; Primary Dermal Irritation was mild to slight; and PROBLAD
PLUS is not a contact dermal sensitizer. Moreover, there are no known
effects on endocrine systems via oral, dermal, or inhalation exposure.
Therefore, the Agency concludes that there are no toxicity risks with
BLAD.
As noted in Unit III., EPA re-examined the potential allergenicity
of BLAD because of the concern raised about potential sensitivity of
peanut-sensitive individuals. The following observations raised new
questions about the potential for BLAD to pose an allergenicity
concern:
1. BLAD comprises an internal segment of [beta]-conglutin;
2. [beta]-conglutin exhibits a relatively strong homology to the
other members of the vicillin family, including well-known allergens
contained in peanuts and soybeans (specifically Ara h 1); and
3. There are a considerable number of studies concerning the
allergenicity of lupine-derived products.
EPA then evaluated the reactivity to BLAD in sensitive individuals.
A Skin Prick Test (SPT) with lupine or peanut extracts in order to
establish a sampling population that was sensitive to lupines and/or
peanuts was submitted to the Agency. The serum from a sensitive
population that tested positive to lupine/peanut exposure through a SPT
was used to evaluate the capacity of cross-reactivity to BLAD in these
sensitive individuals. Negative results to BLAD in IgE-specific in
vitro immunoblot (ELISA) testing on serum from sensitive individuals,
suggest that the compound is non-allergenic to lupine and/or peanut-
sensitive individuals.
Allergenicity relates to both a sensitizing exposure (sensitization
leading to allergy cannot occur to a protein without a prior exposure)
and a subsequent acute effect if allergy develops (a single exposure in
a sensitive individual will cause a response). The difficulty with
assessing allergenicity relates to determining a threshold level of
exposure below which there is no reasonable expectation of eliciting a
reaction in a sensitive individual. Although the new allergenicity data
suggest that BLAD is not an allergen, the existing exemption from the
requirement of a tolerance allows any amount of residue that might
result from reasonably foreseeable uses of BLAD as a fungicide. In
light of the similarity of BLAD to peanut allergens and documented
allergies to lupines in the literature, the Agency believes the safety
of BLAD also depends on demonstrating no detectable residues, in the
absence of a demonstrated threshold level.
Specific information on the studies received and EPA's assessment
of them can be found at https://www.regulations.gov in docket ID number
EPA-HQ-OPP-2015-0230.
C. Toxicological Points of Departure/Levels of Concern
Based on the available toxicity and allergenicity data, the Agency
did not identify any toxicological points of departure or levels of
concern. Nevertheless, due the potential for allergenicity that might
arise under the current exemption due to potentially unlimited exposure
to residues of BLAD, the Agency is relying on data supporting a lack of
exposure to BLAD residues on certain crops. Therefore, the Agency is
conducting a qualitative assessment based on a lack of residues.
D. Exposure Assessment
1. Dietary exposure from food and feed uses. The dietary exposure
to residues of BLAD via pesticidal use is expected to be negligible as,
based on available residue data, the residues are below the level of
detection.
Due to the potential for allergenicity, field trials using PROBLAD
PLUS at the product-labeled application rate and an exaggerated
application rate (5X) were submitted in order to determine levels of
potential exposure and the rate of BLAD residue degradation. Those
studies, conducted on grapes, tomatoes and strawberries, showed that
even with multiple consecutive applications at exaggerated application
rates, the residue levels of BLAD will be negligible or non-existent.
Both studies (involving label and exaggerated
[[Page 30643]]
application rates) showed similar residue measurements and a similar
pattern with a half-life of about 2 days.
At label application rates, grape and strawberry samples showed no
detectable residues (< limit of detection (LOD), 0.005 ppm) of BLAD on
day zero; tomato samples showed BLAD residues < limit of quantitation
(LOQ) (0.0062 ppm) on day zero but declined to < LOD levels one day
after application. To ensure the reduction of any available residues, a
one-day pre-harvest interval on PROBLAD PLUS labeling is being
required.
Additionally, due to the presence of an almond husk and the
subsequent processing of almond nut meats, the pre-harvest use of BLAD
on almonds following good agricultural practices does not represent any
reasonable possibility of resulting in detectable residues on the
edible nut.
2. Dietary exposure from drinking water. Pesticide residues in
drinking water are not expected because BLAD residues degrade rapidly
in the environment. Specific information on the studies received and
EPA's assessment of them can be found at https://www.regulations.gov in
docket ID number EPA-HQ-OPP-2015-0230.
3. From non-dietary exposure. The term ``residential exposure'' is
used in this document to refer to non-occupational, non-dietary
exposure (e.g., for lawn and garden pest control, indoor pest control,
termiticides, and flea and tick control on pets). BLAD is not
registered for any specific use patterns that would result in
residential exposure.
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 BLAD to share a common mechanism of toxicity with
any other substances, and BLAD does not appear to degrade into any
toxic metabolite or other substance of concern. For the purposes of
this tolerance action, therefore, EPA has assumed that BLAD 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
FFDCA section 408(b)(2)(C) provides that, in considering the
establishment of a tolerance or tolerance exemption for a pesticide
chemical residue, 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 that a
different margin of safety will be safe for infants and children. This
additional margin of safety is commonly referred to as the Food Quality
Protection Act Safety Factor (FQPA SF). In applying this provision, EPA
either retains the default value of 10X, or uses a different additional
safety factor when reliable data are available to support the choice of
a different safety factor.
As part of its qualitative assessment, the Agency did not use
safety factors for assessing risk; therefore, no additional safety
factor is needed for assessing risk to infants and children. The
available data indicate that BLAD has minimal or no toxicity and is not
an allergen, especially in combination with the data demonstrating a
lack of exposure from application as a pesticide. EPA therefore
concludes that there are no threshold effects of concern to infants,
children, or adults when BLAD is applied as a fungicide and used in
accordance with label directions and good agricultural practices.
E. Aggregate Risks and Determination of Safety
Taking into consideration all available information on BLAD, EPA
concludes that the potential for allergenicity of BLAD introduces a
reasonable uncertainty concerning the potential for harm to peanut-
sensitive individuals in light of the possibility for unlimited
exposure to BLAD that might be permitted under an unlimited exemption
from the requirement of a tolerance. To address that potential
uncertainty, EPA is proposing to revoke the current tolerance exemption
for BLAD in 40 CFR 180.1319. In its place, and in consideration of
these potential concerns, EPA is proposing to establish a more limited
tolerance of 0.005 ppm for residues of BLAD in or on almonds, grapes,
strawberries, and tomatoes. This is based on crop-specific residue data
on grapes, strawberries, and tomatoes that demonstrates a lack of
residues on those specific crops. Additionally, due to the presence of
an almond husk and the subsequent processing of almond nut meats, the
pre-harvest use of BLAD on almonds following good agricultural
practices does not represent any reasonable possibility of resulting in
detectable residues on the edible nut.
Therefore, under this more limited scenario, EPA concludes that
there is a reasonable certainty that no harm will result to the U.S.
population, including infants and children, from aggregate exposure to
the residues of BLAD when it is applied as fungicide to the
specifically noted crops and used in accordance with label directions
and good agricultural practices. Such exposure includes all anticipated
dietary exposures and all other exposures for which there is reliable
information. Based on this information, EPA expects that, when used
according to the proposed label directions, the tolerance for residues
of BLAD on the listed commodities is safe, and no adverse effects such
as allergenic reactions are expected to occur.
V. Other Considerations
A. Analytical Enforcement Methodology
Adequate enforcement methodology (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay
(ELISA: EASI Method No: RA029 and RA031) is available to enforce the
tolerance expression.
The method may be requested from: Chief, Analytical Chemistry
Branch, Environmental Science Center, 701 Mapes Rd., Ft. Meade, MD
20755-5350; telephone number: (410) 305-2905; email address:
residuemethods@epa.gov.
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 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.
The Codex has not established a MRL for BLAD.
[[Page 30644]]
C. Trade Considerations
The revocation of the existing tolerance exemption and
establishment of tolerances for four commodities is a reduction in
allowable residues of BLAD on food. Therefore, EPA intends to provide
notice to the World Trade Organization (WTO) of this proposal in
accordance with its obligations under the WTO's Sanitary and
Phytosanitary Measures Agreement.
VI. Conclusion
EPA proposes to revoke the existing tolerance exemption for
residues of BLAD in or on all food commodities as established in the
Federal Register of March 22, 2013 under section 408 of the FFDCA due
to potential allergenicity concerns. In its stead, the Agency proposes
to establish a tolerance for residues of BLAD in or on almonds, grapes,
strawberries, and tomatoes at the level of detection of 0.005 ppm based
on BLAD's low toxicity profile, testing that indicated that BLAD is
non-allergenic, and residue data that demonstrated a rapid decline of
BLAD following application at an exaggerated rate. Therefore, EPA is
proposing to establish a tolerance level at the limit of detection for
the analytical method to prevent any exposure to sensitive individuals
from potential residues of BLAD on the treated crops.
VII. Statutory and Executive Order Reviews
This proposed action would revoke an existing exemption from the
requirement of a tolerance and establish new tolerances under FFDCA
section 408(e). The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has exempted
tolerance actions from review under Executive Orders 12866, entitled
Regulatory Planning and Review (58 FR 51735, October 4, 1993), and
13563, entitled Improving Regulation and Regulatory Review (76 FR 3821,
January 21, 2011). As a result, this action 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).
Nor does it require OMB review or any Agency action under Executive
Order 13045, entitled Protection of Children from Environmental Health
Risks and Safety Risks (62 FR 19885, April 23, 1997).
This action does not contain any information collections subject to
OMB approval under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) (44 U.S.C. 3501 et
seq.); 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);
and 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 (NTTAA)
(15 U.S.C. 272 note).
This action directly regulates growers, food processors, food
handlers, and food retailers, but it does not regulate State or tribal
governments. Nor does this action alter the relationships or
distribution of power and responsibilities established in the
preemption provisions of FFDCA section 408(n)(4). Therefore, the Agency
has determined that Executive Orders 13132, entitled Federalism (64 FR
43255, August 10, 1999) and 13175, entitled Consultation and
Coordination with Indian Tribal Governments (65 FR 67249, November 9,
2000) do not apply to this action. In addition, this action does not
impose any enforceable duty, contain any unfunded mandate, or otherwise
significantly or uniquely affect small governments as described in the
Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (UMRA) (2 U.S.C. 1501 et seq.).
Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA) (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.),
I certify that this action will not have significant economic impact on
a substantial number of small entities. In making this determination,
the impact of concern is any significant adverse economic impact on
small entities. An agency may certify that a rule will not have a
significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities
if the action will not impose any requirements on small entities. There
are not a substantial number of small entities affected by this rule.
BLAD, which is currently manufactured only by CEV, is not being used as
a pesticide on food at this time. Therefore, this action will not
impose any requirements or have a significant impact on a substantial
number of small entities. We have therefore concluded that this action
will not impact small entities.
List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 180
Environmental protection, Administrative practice and procedure,
Agricultural commodities, Pesticides and pests, Reporting and
recordkeeping requirements.
Dated: March 13, 2015.
Jack Housenger,
Director, Office of Pesticide Programs.
Therefore, it is proposed that 40 CFR chapter I be 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
3. Section 180.683 is added to read as follows:
Sec. 180.683 Banda de Lupinus albus doce; tolerances for residues.
(a) General. Tolerances are established for residues of the
fungicide banda de Lupinus albus doce (BLAD), including its metabolites
and degradates, in or on the commodities in the table below as a result
of the application of BLAD. Compliance with the tolerance levels
specified below is to be determined by measuring only BLAD in or on the
following commodities.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Parts per
Commodity million
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Almonds..................................................... 0.005
Grapes...................................................... 0.005
Strawberries................................................ 0.005
Tomatoes.................................................... 0.005
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(a) Section 18 emergency exemptions. [Reserved]
(b) Tolerances with regional registrations. [Reserved]
(c) Indirect or inadvertent residues. [Reserved]
Sec. 180.1319 [Removed and Reserved]
0
3. Remove and reserve Sec. 180.1319.
[FR Doc. 2015-12530 Filed 5-28-15; 8:45 am]
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