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METHYL PARATHION TOLERANCE REVOCATIONS TO TAKE EFFECT

Release Date: 01/05/2001
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METHYL PARATHION TOLERANCE REVOCATIONS TO TAKE EFFECT


Under authority of The Food Quality Protection Act (FQPA), EPA will publish on Jan. 5 a notice in the Federal Register announcing the revocation (elimination) of 30 tolerances (maximum permissible residue levels) for the organophosphate pesticide methyl parathion. The tolerance revocation affects a variety of crops, including apples, broccoli, brussels sprouts, carrots, celery, cherries, grapes, nectarines, peaches, pears, and plums. This action follows up on the Aug. 1999 voluntary industry cancellation of these and certain other uses of methyl parathion. The uses were canceled based upon EPA’s determination that acute dietary risks from methyl parathion in food did not meet current safety standards, especially for the protection of children. Under terms of the voluntary agreement between EPA and the companies that produce methyl parathion, this pesticide can not be used on these food crops after Dec. 31, 1999. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is providing guidance for foods that have been legally treated with methyl parathion prior to Dec. 1999. FQPA ensures that legally treated foods are allowed to be marketed in commerce without any disruptions. Further details about this action and the FDA guidance will be available after Jan. 5 at: www.epa.gov/fedrgstr