EPA Proposes Rule to Revoke Most Food Uses of the Insecticide Chlorpyrifos

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a proposed rule to revoke tolerances for chlorpyrifos, an organophosphate insecticide, except for those tolerances associated with the 11 food and feed crops that remain registered. EPA is taking this action in response to a decision by the U.S Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit. According to EPA, this action will support its efforts to cancel most uses of chlorpyrifos on food to reduce exposure and protect public health. The 11 food uses that remain registered are alfalfa, apple, asparagus, cherry (tart), citrus, cotton, peach, soybean, strawberry, sugar beets, and wheat (spring and winter), limited to specified states. EPA estimates that retaining only the 11 food uses could decrease average annual pounds of chlorpyrifos applied in the U.S. by 70% as compared to historical usage. The registration review process for chlorpyrifos is ongoing. EPA will accept public comment on the proposed rule for 60 days.