U.S. EPA revises existing inventory management regulations for Chlorpyrifos

 The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has updated its regulations for existing stocks of three Chlorpyrifos pesticide products manufactured by Adama, including Pyrinex (EPA registration No. 11678-58), Chlorpyrifos 4E AG (Qual-Pro Chlorpyrifos 4E), Chlorpyrifos, Chlorpyrifos, Chlorpyrifos. EPA Registration No. 66222-19) and Vulcan (EPA registration No. 66222-223).

In August 2021, the EPA removed the maximum residue limits (MRLS) for all Chlorpyrifos on food, which prohibited its use on all food and feed crops. In December 2023, a court decision overturned the rule, and the EPA subsequently reinstated all residual limits for Chlorpyrifos.

In the latest existing stock rule, EPA allows the sale and distribution of the Chlorpyrifos insecticide Pyrinex in existing stock until June 30, 2024; Chlorpyrifos 4E AG/Quali-Pro Chlorpyrifos 4E and Vulcan available for sale and distribution until April 30, 2025; Chlorpyrifos 4E AG/ Qual-Pro Chlorpyrifos 4E and Vulcan are used in food, food processing and manufacturing premises for a period up to 30 June 2025, subject to product labelling requirements; Non-food uses are permitted until existing stock is exhausted, but are subject to labelling requirements.

Except for export and proper disposal, the sale, distribution and use of any existing stock of these three products will be prohibited after the above deadline. 

The rule is intended to orderly transition and digest the current stockpile of Chlorpyrifos in the United States, and implementation will be closely monitored.