80_FR_30743 80 FR 30640 - Banda de Lupinus albus doce BLAD; Proposed Pesticide Tolerance

80 FR 30640 - Banda de Lupinus albus doce BLAD; Proposed Pesticide Tolerance

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY

Federal Register Volume 80, Issue 103 (May 29, 2015)

Page Range30640-30644
FR Document2015-12530

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).

Federal Register, Volume 80 Issue 103 (Friday, May 29, 2015)
[Federal Register Volume 80, Number 103 (Friday, May 29, 2015)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 30640-30644]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2015-12530]


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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.

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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: http://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 http://www.epa.gov/dockets/contacts.html.
    Additional instructions on commenting or visiting the docket, along 
with more information about dockets generally, is available at http://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: [email protected].

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 http://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 http://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 http://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 http://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 http://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: 
[email protected].

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]
 BILLING CODE P



                                               30640                       Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 103 / Friday, May 29, 2015 / Proposed Rules

                                               PART 165—REGULATED NAVIGATION                                (d) Regulations. (1) The general                   for a tolerance for residues of banda de
                                               AREAS AND LIMITED ACCESS AREAS                            regulations contained in 33 CFR 165.23                Lupinus albus doce (BLAD) in or on all
                                                                                                         as well as the following regulations                  food commodities. In its place, EPA
                                               ■ 1. The authority citation for Part 165                  apply to the safety zone established in               proposes to establish a tolerance
                                               continues to read as follows:                             conjunction with the Fall River Grand                 limiting residues of BLAD to 0.005 parts
                                                 Authority: 33 U.S.C. 1231; 50 U.S.C. 191;               Prix, Taunton River, vicinity of Fall                 per million (ppm) in or on almonds,
                                               33 CFR 1.05–1, 6.04–1, 6.04–6, and 160.5;                 River, MA. These regulations may be                   grapes, strawberries and tomatoes. The
                                               Department of Homeland Security Delegation                enforced for the duration of the event.               Agency is undertaking this action under
                                               No. 0170.1.                                                  (2) No later than 8 a.m. each day of               the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic
                                               ■ 2. Add a new § 165.T0286 to read as                     the event, the Coast Guard will                       Act (FFDCA).
                                               follows:                                                  announce via Safety Marine Information                DATES: Comments must be received on
                                                                                                         Broadcasts and local media the times                  or before July 28, 2015.
                                               § 165.T0286 Safety Zone for the Fall River
                                                                                                         and duration of each race scheduled for
                                               Grand Prix, Mt. Hope Bay and Taunton                                                                            ADDRESSES: Submit your comments,
                                               River, Fall River, MA.                                    that day, and the precise area(s) of the
                                                                                                                                                               identified by docket identification (ID)
                                                                                                         safety zone that will be enforced.
                                                 (a) Location. The following area is a                                                                         number EPA–HQ–OPP–2015–0230, by
                                                                                                            (3) Vessels may not transit through or
                                               safety zone: Mt. Hope Bay and the                                                                               one of the following methods:
                                                                                                         within the safety zone during periods of
                                               Taunton River navigation channel from                                                                             • Federal eRulemaking Portal: http://
                                                                                                         enforcement without Patrol Commander
                                               approximately Mt. Hope Bay buoy R10                                                                             www.regulations.gov. Follow the online
                                                                                                         approval. Vessels permitted to transit
                                               southwest of Brayton Point channel, and                                                                         instructions for submitting comments.
                                                                                                         must operate at a no-wake speed, in a
                                               extending approximately two miles to                                                                            Do not submit electronically any
                                                                                                         manner which will not endanger
                                               the northeast up to and including Mt.                                                                           information you consider to be
                                                                                                         participants or other crafts in the event.
                                               Hope Bay buoy C17 north of the Braga                         (4) Spectators or other vessels shall              Confidential Business Information (CBI)
                                               Bridge. The safety zone is encompassed                    not anchor, block, loiter, or impede the              or other information whose disclosure is
                                               by the following coordinates:                             movement of event participants or                     restricted by statute.
                                                                                                         official patrol vessels in the safety zone              • Mail: OPP Docket, Environmental
                                                   Corner           Latitude            Longitude                                                              Protection Agency Docket Center (EPA/
                                                                                                         unless authorized by an official patrol
                                                                                                         vessel.                                               DC), (28221T), 1200 Pennsylvania Ave.
                                               SW ............     41°41.40′   N.      71°11.15′    W.                                                         NW., Washington, DC 20460–0001.
                                               NW ............     41°41.48′   N.      71°11.15′    W.      (5) The Patrol Commander may
                                               SE .............    41°42.33′   N.      71°09.40′    W.   control the movement of all vessels in                  • Hand Delivery: To make special
                                               NE .............    41°42.42′   N.      71°09.47′    W.   the safety zone. When hailed or signaled              arrangements for hand delivery or
                                                                                                         by an official patrol vessel, a vessel shall          delivery of boxed information, please
                                                  (b) Enforcement Period. Vessels will                   come to an immediate stop and comply                  follow the instructions at http://
                                               be prohibited from entering this safety                   with the lawful directions issued.                    www.epa.gov/dockets/contacts.html.
                                               zone, when enforced, during the Fall                      Failure to comply with a lawful                         Additional instructions on
                                               River Grand Prix marine event between                     direction may result in expulsion from                commenting or visiting the docket,
                                               9 a.m. and 5 p.m. from Friday, August                     the area, citation for failure to comply,             along with more information about
                                               14, 2015 to Sunday, August 16, 2015.                      or both.                                              dockets generally, is available at
                                                  (c) Definitions. The following                            (6) The Patrol Commander may delay                 http://www.epa.gov/dockets.
                                               definitions apply to this section:                        or terminate the Fall River Grand Prix                FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
                                                  (1) Designated Representative. A                       at any time to ensure safety. Such action             Robert McNally, Director, Biopesticides
                                               ‘‘designated representative’’ is any Coast                may be justified as a result of weather,              and Pollution Prevention Division
                                               Guard commissioned, warrant or petty                      traffic density, spectator operation or               (7511P), Office of Pesticide Programs,
                                               officer of the U.S. Coast Guard who has                   participant behavior.                                 Environmental Protection Agency, 1200
                                               been designated by the Captain of the                                                                           Pennsylvania Ave. NW., Washington,
                                                                                                           Dated: May 8, 2015.
                                               Port, Sector Southeastern New England                                                                           DC 20460–0001; main telephone
                                               (COTP), to act on his or her behalf. The                  J.T. Kondratowicz,
                                                                                                                                                               number: (703) 305–7090; email address:
                                               designated representative may be on an                    Captain, U.S. Coast Guard, Captain of the
                                                                                                                                                               BPPDFRNotices@epa.gov.
                                               official patrol vessel or may be on shore                 Port Southeastern New England.
                                                                                                                                                               SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
                                               and will communicate with vessels via                     [FR Doc. 2015–12736 Filed 5–28–15; 8:45 am]
                                               VHF–FM radio or loudhailer. In                            BILLING CODE 9110–04–P                                I. General Information
                                               addition, members of the Coast Guard                                                                            A. Does this action apply to me?
                                               Auxiliary may be present to inform
                                               vessel operators of this regulation.                      ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION                                 You may be potentially affected by
                                                  (2) Official Patrol Vessels. Official                  AGENCY                                                this action if you are an agricultural
                                               patrol vessels may consist of any Coast                                                                         producer, food manufacturer, or
                                               Guard, Coast Guard Auxiliary, state, or                   40 CFR Part 180                                       pesticide manufacturer. The following
                                               local law enforcement vessels assigned                    [EPA–HQ–OPP–2015–0230; FRL–9927–02]
                                                                                                                                                               list of North American Industrial
                                               or approved by the COTP.                                                                                        Classification System (NAICS) codes is
                                                  (3) Patrol Commander. The Coast                        RIN 2070–ZA16                                         not intended to be exhaustive, but rather
                                               Guard may patrol each safety zone                                                                               provides a guide to help readers
                                                                                                         Banda de Lupinus albus doce BLAD;
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                                               under the direction of a designated                                                                             determine whether this document
                                               Coast Guard Patrol Commander. The                         Proposed Pesticide Tolerance                          applies to them. Potentially affected
                                               Patrol Commander may be contacted on                      AGENCY:  Environmental Protection                     entities may include:
                                               Channel 16 VHF–FM (156.8 MHz) by                          Agency (EPA).                                            • Crop production (NAICS code 111).
                                               the call sign ‘‘PATCOM.’’                                 ACTION: Proposed rule.                                   • Animal production (NAICS code
                                                  (4) Spectators. All persons and vessels                                                                      112).
                                               not registered with the event sponsor as                  SUMMARY:  EPA proposes to revoke the                     • Food manufacturing (NAICS code
                                               participants or official patrol vessels.                  current exemption from the requirement                311).


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                                                                         Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 103 / Friday, May 29, 2015 / Proposed Rules                                           30641

                                                 • Pesticide manufacturing (NAICS                      modify or revoke an exemption if the                  BLAD on all food commodities, FDA
                                               code 32532).                                            Agency determines it is not safe.                     raised concerns about the potential
                                                                                                         EPA performs a number of analyses to                allergenicity of the BLAD protein for
                                               B. What should I consider as I prepare                  determine the risks from aggregate                    peanut-sensitive individuals. EPA’s
                                               my comments for EPA?                                    exposure to pesticide residues. For                   original review of the data in support of
                                                  1. Submitting CBI. Do not submit this                further discussion of the regulatory                  the establishment of a tolerance
                                               information to EPA through                              requirements of FFDCA section 408 and                 exemption had considered BLAD’s
                                               regulations.gov or email. Clearly mark                  a complete description of the risk                    potential allergenicity and concluded
                                               the part or all of the information that                 assessment process, see http://                       that the use of BLAD as pesticide would
                                               you claim to be CBI. For CBI                            www.epa.gov/pesticides/regulating/                    not result in any meaningful exposure to
                                               information on a disk or CD–ROM that                    tolerances.htm.                                       human health and the environment
                                               you mail to EPA, mark the outside of the                B. What action is the Agency taking?                  based on the following considerations.
                                               disk or CD–ROM as CBI and then                                                                                First, because lupines are commonly
                                               identify electronically within the disk or                EPA, on its own initiative under                    used in human and animal nutrition as
                                               CD–ROM the specific information that                    FFDCA section 408(c)(1)(B), is                        a food and feed, EPA concluded that
                                               is claimed as CBI. In addition, to one                  proposing to revoke the existing                      any dietary contribution from use of
                                               complete version of the comment that                    exemption from the requirement of a                   BLAD as a pesticide would be relatively
                                               includes information claimed as CBI, a                  tolerance for residues of the fungicide               limited. Second, the weight of evidence
                                               copy of the comment that does not                       BLAD in or on all food commodities as                 regarding the BLAD protein suggested
                                               contain the information claimed as CBI                  established in the Federal Register of                low risk for allergenicity concerns upon
                                               must be submitted for inclusion in the                  March 22, 2013 (78 FR 17600) (FRL–                    application of the criteria set by the
                                               public docket. Information so marked                    9380–6). In addition, EPA is proposing                Codex Alimentarius (2003) and the
                                               will not be disclosed except in                         to establish a tolerance under FFDCA                  Food and Agricultural Organizations of
                                               accordance with procedures set forth in                 section 408(e) for residues of the                    the United Nations/World Health
                                               40 CFR part 2.                                          fungicide BLAD, in or on almonds,                     Organization (FAO/WHO) (2001):
                                                  2. Tips for preparing your comments.                 grapes, strawberries, and tomatoes at the                • Amino acid homology: Having an
                                               When preparing and submitting your                      level of detection of 0.005 ppm.                      amino acid residue similarity of greater
                                               comments, see the commenting tips at                      EPA is taking this action in response               than 35% over a sequence of 80 amino
                                               http://www.epa.gov/dockets/                             to concerns that were raised by the                   acids of a known allergenic protein (Ara
                                               comments.html.                                          Federal Drug Administration (FDA)                     h 1). Residues 5 to 169 in BLAD exhibit
                                                                                                       about the potential allergenicity of                  a 58% sequence homology when
                                               II. This Proposal                                       BLAD for peanut-sensitive individuals                 compared to residues 148 to 312 in Ara
                                               A. What is the authority for this action?               following EPA’s promulgation of the                   h 1, which is similar to other legume
                                                                                                       tolerance exemption of BLAD on all                    seed storage proteins;
                                                 EPA is taking this action under                       food commodities. Based on the                           • Having one or more sets of more
                                               section 408(e) the FFDCA, 21 U.S.C.                     potential uncertainty raised by those                 than 6 contiguous amino acid residues
                                               346a(e), which allows EPA to initiate a                 concerns, EPA sought additional data                  that are identical to amino acids of a
                                               tolerance action under FFDCA section                    from the petitioner and reexamined the                known allergenic protein. BLAD
                                               408, 21 U.S.C. 346a et seq. FFDCA                       safety of the BLAD tolerance exemption.               contains only one stretch of contiguous
                                               section 408(b)(2)(A)(i) allows EPA to                   Following an assessment of the                        amino acid residues identical to Ara h
                                               establish a tolerance (the legal limit for              additional data that was provided, EPA                1; as a comparison there are 2 in lupine
                                               a pesticide chemical residue in or on a                 has concluded that the available data                 and bean vicilin, 3 in pea and broad
                                               food) only if EPA determines that the                   supports establishing a more limited                  bean vicilin, and 5 in soybeans. This
                                               tolerance is ‘‘safe.’’ FFDCA section                    tolerance at the level of detection on                observation suggests a more likely
                                               408(b)(2)(A)(ii) defines ‘‘safe’’ to mean               specific commodities.                                 presence of IgE recognition epitopes on
                                               that ‘‘there is a reasonable certainty that                                                                   the vicilins rather than on BLAD;
                                               no harm will result from aggregate                      III. Regulatory Background
                                                                                                                                                                • Serum cross-reactivity to known
                                               exposure to the pesticide chemical                         In the Federal Register of March 22,               allergens: Moneret-Vautrin et al., 1999
                                               residue, including all anticipated                      2013, EPA established a tolerance                     found that although peanut-lupine
                                               dietary exposures and all other                         exemption for residues of BLAD in or on               cross-reactivity allergenic potential is
                                               exposures for which there is reliable                   all food commodities when applied as a                high, it presumably corresponds to
                                               information.’’ This includes exposure                   fungicide and used in accordance with                 lupine g-conglutin and not to lupine b-
                                               through drinking water and in                           label directions and good agricultural                conglutin, the precursor of BLAD;
                                               residential settings, but does not include              practices. EPA established this tolerance                • Pepsin resistance: BLAD is readily
                                               occupational exposure.                                  exemption following the receipt of a                  degraded by proteolytic enzymes and
                                                 FFDCA section 408(b)(2)(C) requires                   petition from Consumo Em Verde S.A,                      • Expression levels: Using
                                               EPA to give special consideration to                    Biotecnologia De Plantas, Parque                      immunological methods, residual levels
                                               exposure of infants and children to the                 Technologico de Cantanhede (CEV) in                   of BLAD were not detectable 18 hours
                                               pesticide chemical residue in                           2012. All of the data requirements to                 after application to tomatoes, relative to
                                               establishing a tolerance and to ‘‘ensure                support the exemption from the                        controls.
                                               that there is a reasonable certainty that               requirement of a tolerance were                          This information was used by the EPA
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                                               no harm will result to infants and                      fulfilled, and following an assessment of             to conclude that BLAD is not likely to
                                               children from aggregate exposure to the                 all available data, EPA concluded that                be an allergen.
                                               pesticide chemical residue . . .’’                      there was a reasonable certainty that no                 Nonetheless, FDA expressed concerns
                                                 Section 408(c)(2)(A)(ii) contains the                 harm will result to the U.S. population,              about the potential allergenicity of
                                               same safety standard for establishing or                including infants and children, from                  BLAD because lupine is known to incite
                                               leaving in effect an exemption from the                 aggregate exposure to residues of BLAD.               food allergy in sensitive individuals and
                                               requirement of a tolerance. Section                        Following EPA’s establishment of a                 because of reports of cross-reactivity to
                                               408(c)(2)(A)(i) requires the Agency to                  tolerance exemption for residues of                   lupine protein in peanut sensitive


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                                               30642                     Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 103 / Friday, May 29, 2015 / Proposed Rules

                                               individuals. In response to these newly                 as a fungicide, degrades chitin by                       Allergenicity relates to both a
                                               raised concerns, EPA decided to                         catalyzing and successfully removing                  sensitizing exposure (sensitization
                                               investigate further the issues raised by                the N-acetyl-D-glucosamine terminal                   leading to allergy cannot occur to a
                                               FDA and seek additional data, including                 monomers, resulting in the destruction                protein without a prior exposure) and a
                                               a skin prick (in vivo) test on Ara h 1                  of the fungal cells. There is a history of            subsequent acute effect if allergy
                                               peanut/lupine sensitive individuals and                 safe use in human and livestock                       develops (a single exposure in a
                                               an in vitro immunological testing on                    consumption; however, there may be a                  sensitive individual will cause a
                                               serum from Ara h 1 peanut/lupine                        potential for allergenicity with some                 response). The difficulty with assessing
                                               sensitive individuals. The focus on Ara                 sensitive populations.                                allergenicity relates to determining a
                                               h 1 sensitive individuals is due to the                    All of the toxicity data requirements              threshold level of exposure below
                                               similarity of the b-conglutin parent                    have been fulfilled. EPA has concluded                which there is no reasonable
                                               molecule of BLAD to the Ara h 1                         that the data are acceptable and no                   expectation of eliciting a reaction in a
                                               allergen and reports of cross reactivity                additional data are required. Data on the             sensitive individual. Although the new
                                               in peanut-sensitive individuals to                      end-use product, PROBLAD PLUS,                        allergenicity data suggest that BLAD is
                                               lupine protein.                                         containing BLAD as its active                         not an allergen, the existing exemption
                                                  In addition, EPA required residue                    ingredient, did not indicate toxicity                 from the requirement of a tolerance
                                               chemistry field trials conducted on                     endpoints. The toxicological                          allows any amount of residue that might
                                               crops listed on the proposed pesticide                  information showed that PROBLAD                       result from reasonably foreseeable uses
                                               label using PROBLAD PLUS, the end-                      PLUS has a low toxicity profile as noted              of BLAD as a fungicide. In light of the
                                               use pesticide containing the BLAD                       in the test results for the following                 similarity of BLAD to peanut allergens
                                               protein, at label rates and exaggerated                 studies: Acute Oral Lowest Dose (LD)50                and documented allergies to lupines in
                                               application rates (5X) to establish a rate              > 5,000 milligram/kilogram (mg/kg);                   the literature, the Agency believes the
                                               of decline and residue levels of BLAD                   Acute Dermal LD50 > 2,000 mg/kg;                      safety of BLAD also depends on
                                               on crops tested. Upon receipt of all the                Acute Inhalation LC50 > 5.34 milligram/               demonstrating no detectable residues, in
                                               new information, EPA reexamined the                     Liter (mg/L); Primary Eye Irritation was              the absence of a demonstrated threshold
                                               safety of BLAD.                                         slight; Primary Dermal Irritation was                 level.
                                                                                                       mild to slight; and PROBLAD PLUS is                      Specific information on the studies
                                               IV. Aggregate Risk Assessment and                       not a contact dermal sensitizer.                      received and EPA’s assessment of them
                                               Determination of Safety                                 Moreover, there are no known effects on               can be found at http://
                                               A. EPA’s Safety Determination                           endocrine systems via oral, dermal, or                www.regulations.gov in docket ID
                                                                                                       inhalation exposure. Therefore, the                   number EPA–HQ–OPP–2015–0230.
                                                  EPA has evaluated the available                      Agency concludes that there are no
                                               toxicity and exposure data and                                                                                C. Toxicological Points of Departure/
                                                                                                       toxicity risks with BLAD.
                                               considered its validity, completeness,                     As noted in Unit III., EPA re-                     Levels of Concern
                                               and reliability, as well as the                         examined the potential allergenicity of                  Based on the available toxicity and
                                               relationship of the results of the studies              BLAD because of the concern raised                    allergenicity data, the Agency did not
                                               to human risk. Based upon that                          about potential sensitivity of peanut-                identify any toxicological points of
                                               evaluation, EPA concludes that there is                 sensitive individuals. The following                  departure or levels of concern.
                                               a reasonable certainty that no harm will                observations raised new questions about               Nevertheless, due the potential for
                                               result to the general population, or to                 the potential for BLAD to pose an                     allergenicity that might arise under the
                                               infants and children, from aggregate                    allergenicity concern:                                current exemption due to potentially
                                               exposure to BLAD residues under the                        1. BLAD comprises an internal                      unlimited exposure to residues of
                                               tolerance proposed in this action.                      segment of b-conglutin;                               BLAD, the Agency is relying on data
                                                  EPA’s assessment of exposures and                       2. b-conglutin exhibits a relatively               supporting a lack of exposure to BLAD
                                               risks associated with BLAD is discussed                 strong homology to the other members                  residues on certain crops. Therefore, the
                                               in this unit of the document.                           of the vicillin family, including well-               Agency is conducting a qualitative
                                               B. Toxicological Profile                                known allergens contained in peanuts                  assessment based on a lack of residues.
                                                                                                       and soybeans (specifically Ara h 1); and
                                                 EPA has evaluated the available                          3. There are a considerable number of              D. Exposure Assessment
                                               toxicity data and considered its validity,              studies concerning the allergenicity of                  1. Dietary exposure from food and
                                               completeness, and reliability as well as                lupine-derived products.                              feed uses. The dietary exposure to
                                               the relationship of the results of the                     EPA then evaluated the reactivity to               residues of BLAD via pesticidal use is
                                               studies to human risk. EPA has also                     BLAD in sensitive individuals.                        expected to be negligible as, based on
                                               considered available information                           A Skin Prick Test (SPT) with lupine                available residue data, the residues are
                                               concerning the variability of the                       or peanut extracts in order to establish              below the level of detection.
                                               sensitivities of major identifiable                     a sampling population that was                           Due to the potential for allergenicity,
                                               subgroups of consumers, including                       sensitive to lupines and/or peanuts was               field trials using PROBLAD PLUS at the
                                               infants and children.                                   submitted to the Agency. The serum                    product-labeled application rate and an
                                                 BLAD is a naturally occurring 20 kilo                 from a sensitive population that tested               exaggerated application rate (5X) were
                                               Dalton (kDa) polypeptide fragment of                    positive to lupine/peanut exposure                    submitted in order to determine levels
                                               b-conglutin, a main storage protein in                  through a SPT was used to evaluate the                of potential exposure and the rate of
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                                               the flowering plant sweet lupines                       capacity of cross-reactivity to BLAD in               BLAD residue degradation. Those
                                               (Lupinus albus). BLAD protein is                        these sensitive individuals. Negative                 studies, conducted on grapes, tomatoes
                                               produced by breakdown of b-conglutin                    results to BLAD in IgE-specific in vitro              and strawberries, showed that even with
                                               during day 4 to 12 of the germination                   immunoblot (ELISA) testing on serum                   multiple consecutive applications at
                                               process of the sweet lupines. Data                      from sensitive individuals, suggest that              exaggerated application rates, the
                                               submitted and reviewed by the Agency                    the compound is non-allergenic to                     residue levels of BLAD will be
                                               demonstrate that BLAD operates in a                     lupine and/or peanut-sensitive                        negligible or non-existent. Both studies
                                               non-toxic manner. BLAD, which is used                   individuals.                                          (involving label and exaggerated


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                                                                         Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 103 / Friday, May 29, 2015 / Proposed Rules                                           30643

                                               application rates) showed similar                       http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/                        subsequent processing of almond nut
                                               residue measurements and a similar                      cumulative.                                           meats, the pre-harvest use of BLAD on
                                               pattern with a half-life of about 2 days.                                                                     almonds following good agricultural
                                                                                                       D. Safety Factor for Infants and
                                                  At label application rates, grape and                                                                      practices does not represent any
                                                                                                       Children
                                               strawberry samples showed no                                                                                  reasonable possibility of resulting in
                                               detectable residues (< limit of detection                  FFDCA section 408(b)(2)(C) provides                detectable residues on the edible nut.
                                               (LOD), 0.005 ppm) of BLAD on day zero;                  that, in considering the establishment of                Therefore, under this more limited
                                               tomato samples showed BLAD residues                     a tolerance or tolerance exemption for a              scenario, EPA concludes that there is a
                                               < limit of quantitation (LOQ) (0.0062                   pesticide chemical residue, EPA shall                 reasonable certainty that no harm will
                                               ppm) on day zero but declined to < LOD                  apply an additional tenfold (10X)                     result to the U.S. population, including
                                               levels one day after application. To                    margin of safety for infants and children             infants and children, from aggregate
                                               ensure the reduction of any available                   in the case of threshold effects to                   exposure to the residues of BLAD when
                                               residues, a one-day pre-harvest interval                account for prenatal and postnatal                    it is applied as fungicide to the
                                               on PROBLAD PLUS labeling is being                       toxicity and the completeness of the                  specifically noted crops and used in
                                               required.                                               database on toxicity and exposure,                    accordance with label directions and
                                                  Additionally, due to the presence of                 unless EPA determines that a different                good agricultural practices. Such
                                               an almond husk and the subsequent                       margin of safety will be safe for infants             exposure includes all anticipated
                                               processing of almond nut meats, the                     and children. This additional margin of               dietary exposures and all other
                                               pre-harvest use of BLAD on almonds                      safety is commonly referred to as the                 exposures for which there is reliable
                                               following good agricultural practices                   Food Quality Protection Act Safety                    information. Based on this information,
                                                                                                       Factor (FQPA SF). In applying this                    EPA expects that, when used according
                                               does not represent any reasonable
                                                                                                       provision, EPA either retains the default             to the proposed label directions, the
                                               possibility of resulting in detectable
                                                                                                       value of 10X, or uses a different                     tolerance for residues of BLAD on the
                                               residues on the edible nut.
                                                                                                       additional safety factor when reliable                listed commodities is safe, and no
                                                  2. Dietary exposure from drinking
                                                                                                       data are available to support the choice              adverse effects such as allergenic
                                               water. Pesticide residues in drinking
                                                                                                       of a different safety factor.                         reactions are expected to occur.
                                               water are not expected because BLAD                        As part of its qualitative assessment,
                                               residues degrade rapidly in the                         the Agency did not use safety factors for             V. Other Considerations
                                               environment. Specific information on                    assessing risk; therefore, no additional
                                               the studies received and EPA’s                                                                                A. Analytical Enforcement Methodology
                                                                                                       safety factor is needed for assessing risk
                                               assessment of them can be found at                      to infants and children. The available                   Adequate enforcement methodology
                                               http://www.regulations.gov in docket ID                 data indicate that BLAD has minimal or                (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay
                                               number EPA–HQ–OPP–2015–0230.                            no toxicity and is not an allergen,                   (ELISA: EASI Method No: RA029 and
                                                  3. From non-dietary exposure. The                    especially in combination with the data               RA031) is available to enforce the
                                               term ‘‘residential exposure’’ is used in                demonstrating a lack of exposure from                 tolerance expression.
                                               this document to refer to non-                          application as a pesticide. EPA therefore                The method may be requested from:
                                               occupational, non-dietary exposure                      concludes that there are no threshold                 Chief, Analytical Chemistry Branch,
                                               (e.g., for lawn and garden pest control,                effects of concern to infants, children, or           Environmental Science Center, 701
                                               indoor pest control, termiticides, and                  adults when BLAD is applied as a                      Mapes Rd., Ft. Meade, MD 20755–5350;
                                               flea and tick control on pets). BLAD is                 fungicide and used in accordance with                 telephone number: (410) 305–2905;
                                               not registered for any specific use                     label directions and good agricultural                email address: residuemethods@
                                               patterns that would result in residential               practices.                                            epa.gov.
                                               exposure.
                                                  4. Cumulative effects from substances                E. Aggregate Risks and Determination of               B. International Residue Limits
                                               with a common mechanism of toxicity.                    Safety                                                   In making its tolerance decisions, EPA
                                               Section 408(b)(2)(D)(v) of FFDCA                           Taking into consideration all available            seeks to harmonize U.S. tolerances with
                                               requires that, when considering whether                 information on BLAD, EPA concludes                    international standards whenever
                                               to establish, modify, or revoke a                       that the potential for allergenicity of               possible, consistent with U.S. food
                                               tolerance, the Agency consider                          BLAD introduces a reasonable                          safety standards and agricultural
                                               ‘‘available information’’ concerning the                uncertainty concerning the potential for              practices. EPA considers the
                                               cumulative effects of a particular                      harm to peanut-sensitive individuals in               international maximum residue limits
                                               pesticide’s residues and ‘‘other                        light of the possibility for unlimited                (MRLs) established by the Codex
                                               substances that have a common                           exposure to BLAD that might be                        Alimentarius Commission (Codex), as
                                               mechanism of toxicity.’’                                permitted under an unlimited                          required by FFDCA section 408(b)(4).
                                                  EPA has not found BLAD to share a                    exemption from the requirement of a                   The Codex Alimentarius is a joint
                                               common mechanism of toxicity with                       tolerance. To address that potential                  United Nations Food and Agriculture
                                               any other substances, and BLAD does                     uncertainty, EPA is proposing to revoke               Organization/World Health
                                               not appear to degrade into any toxic                    the current tolerance exemption for                   Organization food standards program,
                                               metabolite or other substance of                        BLAD in 40 CFR 180.1319. In its place,                and it is recognized as an international
                                               concern. For the purposes of this                       and in consideration of these potential               food safety standards-setting
                                               tolerance action, therefore, EPA has                    concerns, EPA is proposing to establish               organization in trade agreements to
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                                               assumed that BLAD does not have a                       a more limited tolerance of 0.005 ppm                 which the United States is a party. EPA
                                               common mechanism of toxicity with                       for residues of BLAD in or on almonds,                may establish a tolerance that is
                                               other substances. For information                       grapes, strawberries, and tomatoes. This              different from a Codex MRL; however,
                                               regarding EPA’s efforts to determine                    is based on crop-specific residue data on             FFDCA section 408(b)(4) requires that
                                               which chemicals have a common                           grapes, strawberries, and tomatoes that               EPA explain the reasons for departing
                                               mechanism of toxicity and to evaluate                   demonstrates a lack of residues on those              from the Codex level.
                                               the cumulative effects of such                          specific crops. Additionally, due to the                 The Codex has not established a MRL
                                               chemicals, see EPA’s Web site at                        presence of an almond husk and the                    for BLAD.


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                                               30644                     Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 103 / Friday, May 29, 2015 / Proposed Rules

                                               C. Trade Considerations                                 Environmental Justice in Minority                     PART 180—[AMENDED]
                                                 The revocation of the existing                        Populations and Low-Income
                                                                                                       Populations (59 FR 7629, February 16,                 ■ 1. The authority citation for part 180
                                               tolerance exemption and establishment
                                                                                                       1994); and does not involve any                       continues to read as follows:
                                               of tolerances for four commodities is a
                                               reduction in allowable residues of                      technical standards that would require                    Authority: 21 U.S.C. 321(q), 346a and 371.
                                               BLAD on food. Therefore, EPA intends                    Agency consideration of voluntary                     ■ 3. Section 180.683 is added to read as
                                               to provide notice to the World Trade                    consensus standards pursuant to section               follows:
                                               Organization (WTO) of this proposal in                  12(d) of the National Technology
                                               accordance with its obligations under                   Transfer and Advancement Act                          § 180.683 Banda de Lupinus albus doce;
                                                                                                       (NTTAA) (15 U.S.C. 272 note).                         tolerances for residues.
                                               the WTO’s Sanitary and Phytosanitary
                                               Measures Agreement.                                        This action directly regulates growers,              (a) General. Tolerances are
                                                                                                       food processors, food handlers, and food              established for residues of the fungicide
                                               VI. Conclusion                                          retailers, but it does not regulate State             banda de Lupinus albus doce (BLAD),
                                                  EPA proposes to revoke the existing                  or tribal governments. Nor does this                  including its metabolites and
                                               tolerance exemption for residues of                     action alter the relationships or                     degradates, in or on the commodities in
                                               BLAD in or on all food commodities as                   distribution of power and                             the table below as a result of the
                                               established in the Federal Register of                  responsibilities established in the                   application of BLAD. Compliance with
                                               March 22, 2013 under section 408 of the                 preemption provisions of FFDCA                        the tolerance levels specified below is to
                                               FFDCA due to potential allergenicity                    section 408(n)(4). Therefore, the Agency              be determined by measuring only BLAD
                                               concerns. In its stead, the Agency                      has determined that Executive Orders                  in or on the following commodities.
                                               proposes to establish a tolerance for                   13132, entitled Federalism (64 FR
                                               residues of BLAD in or on almonds,                      43255, August 10, 1999) and 13175,                                                                      Parts per
                                                                                                                                                                            Commodity                           million
                                               grapes, strawberries, and tomatoes at the               entitled Consultation and Coordination
                                               level of detection of 0.005 ppm based on                with Indian Tribal Governments (65 FR                 Almonds ......................................        0.005
                                               BLAD’s low toxicity profile, testing that               67249, November 9, 2000) do not apply                 Grapes ........................................       0.005
                                               indicated that BLAD is non-allergenic,                  to this action. In addition, this action              Strawberries ................................         0.005
                                               and residue data that demonstrated a                    does not impose any enforceable duty,                 Tomatoes ....................................         0.005
                                               rapid decline of BLAD following                         contain any unfunded mandate, or
                                               application at an exaggerated rate.                     otherwise significantly or uniquely                     (a) Section 18 emergency exemptions.
                                               Therefore, EPA is proposing to establish                affect small governments as described in              [Reserved]
                                               a tolerance level at the limit of detection             the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act                        (b) Tolerances with regional
                                               for the analytical method to prevent any                (UMRA) (2 U.S.C. 1501 et seq.).                       registrations. [Reserved]
                                               exposure to sensitive individuals from                     Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act                 (c) Indirect or inadvertent residues.
                                               potential residues of BLAD on the                       (RFA) (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.), I certify that          [Reserved]
                                               treated crops.                                          this action will not have significant                 § 180.1319        [Removed and Reserved]
                                               VII. Statutory and Executive Order                      economic impact on a substantial
                                                                                                                                                             ■ 3. Remove and reserve § 180.1319.
                                               Reviews                                                 number of small entities. In making this              [FR Doc. 2015–12530 Filed 5–28–15; 8:45 am]
                                                                                                       determination, the impact of concern is
                                                                                                                                                             BILLING CODE P
                                                 This proposed action would revoke an                  any significant adverse economic
                                               existing exemption from the                             impact on small entities. An agency may
                                               requirement of a tolerance and establish                certify that a rule will not have a                   ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
                                               new tolerances under FFDCA section                      significant economic impact on a                      AGENCY
                                               408(e). The Office of Management and                    substantial number of small entities if
                                               Budget (OMB) has exempted tolerance                     the action will not impose any                        40 CFR Chapter I
                                               actions from review under Executive                     requirements on small entities. There
                                               Orders 12866, entitled Regulatory                                                                             [EPA–HQ–OPP–2014–0818; FRL–9927–36]
                                                                                                       are not a substantial number of small
                                               Planning and Review (58 FR 51735,                       entities affected by this rule. BLAD,                 Proposal To Mitigate Exposure to Bees
                                               October 4, 1993), and 13563, entitled                   which is currently manufactured only                  From Acutely Toxic Pesticide
                                               Improving Regulation and Regulatory                     by CEV, is not being used as a pesticide              Products; Notice of Availability
                                               Review (76 FR 3821, January 21, 2011).                  on food at this time. Therefore, this
                                               As a result, this action is not subject to              action will not impose any requirements               AGENCY: Environmental Protection
                                               Executive Order 13211, entitled Actions                 or have a significant impact on a                     Agency (EPA).
                                               Concerning Regulations That                             substantial number of small entities. We              ACTION: Notice.
                                               Significantly Affect Energy Supply,                     have therefore concluded that this
                                               Distribution, or Use (66 FR 28355, May                  action will not impact small entities.                SUMMARY:    EPA is seeking comment on a
                                               22, 2001). Nor does it require OMB                                                                            proposal to adopt mandatory pesticide
                                               review or any Agency action under                       List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 180                   label restrictions to protect managed
                                               Executive Order 13045, entitled                           Environmental protection,                           bees under contract pollination services
                                               Protection of Children from                             Administrative practice and procedure,                from foliar application of pesticides that
                                               Environmental Health Risks and Safety                   Agricultural commodities, Pesticides                  are acutely toxic to bees on a contact
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                                               Risks (62 FR 19885, April 23, 1997).                    and pests, Reporting and recordkeeping                exposure basis. These label restrictions
                                                 This action does not contain any                      requirements.                                         would prohibit applications of pesticide
                                               information collections subject to OMB                                                                        products, which are acutely toxic to
                                                                                                         Dated: March 13, 2015.
                                               approval under the Paperwork                                                                                  bees, during bloom when bees are
                                               Reduction Act (PRA) (44 U.S.C. 3501 et                  Jack Housenger,                                       known to be present under contract.
                                               seq.); require any special considerations               Director, Office of Pesticide Programs.               EPA is also seeking comment on a
                                               under Executive Order 12898, entitled                     Therefore, it is proposed that 40 CFR               proposal to rely on efforts made by
                                               Federal Actions to Address                              chapter I be amended as follows:                      states and tribes to reduce pesticide


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Document Created: 2015-12-15 15:31:38
Document Modified: 2015-12-15 15:31:38
CategoryRegulatory Information
CollectionFederal Register
sudoc ClassAE 2.7:
GS 4.107:
AE 2.106:
PublisherOffice of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration
SectionProposed Rules
ActionProposed rule.
DatesComments must be received on or before July 28, 2015.
ContactRobert 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-
FR Citation80 FR 30640 
RIN Number2070-ZA16
CFR AssociatedEnvironmental Protection; Administrative Practice and Procedure; Agricultural Commodities; Pesticides and Pests and Reporting and Recordkeeping Requirements

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