25(b) Exempt Biopesticides: What it means & how it can benefit you

What does being FIFRA 25 (b) exempt mean?

Before a pesticide can be registered under FIFRA, Applicants must show that using the pesticide will not cause undue environmental harm.

Once federal registration is complete under FIFRA, the product is strictly regulated regarding what crops you can apply on, application rate, method, timing, and many other aspects.

However, some products are exempt from FIFRA requirements for pesticide regulation. The EPA came up with a list of ingredients that do not have to be registered. These are ingredients that are safe for crops, growers, and the environment. This provides a considerable advantage to the applicator with minimum risk.

FIFRA 25(b) exempt products are allowed for use on a broad range of crops. They can be used without restrictions on application timing or volume like many EPA-registered products. This is very attractive for producers and applicators.” 25(b) products allow applicators to be flexible and adjust their plans according to the season and situation.

Often webpages or brochures for FIFRA 25(b) exempt products a disclaimer is included.

“FIFRA 25(b) exempt pesticide: This product is exempt from registration with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under FIFRA section 25(b) regulations. Kemin Industries, Inc. represents that this product qualifies for exemption from registration under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA).”

Kemin Crop Technologies is thrilled to have products that offer our customers this superior experience and safety. Next to safety, providing farmers and growers with easy-to-use, effective products is our top priority.

Benefits of using a 25(b) exempt product in your IPM program:

1. They are made from ingredients that are safe for labor and workers, allowing a zero-hour re-entry interval (REI).

2. There is limited disruption to harvest activities due to (zero-day PHI). The products can be applied to crops at any time in the season. Including the day of harvest and the day of the shipment. 

3. Labeled for use on all crops.

6. Exemption from food tolerance requirements (no Maximum Residue Limits, MRLs). This is because the amount of pesticide residue expected to remain on crops after an application is minimal. 

7. These pesticides are generally safe for beneficial insects and do not cause phytotoxicity in plants.

8. Tank mix-compatible products make for an easy addition to your IPM.

9. These are key aids in achieving sustainable agriculture and organic production.

Make the switch to using 25(b) exempt pesticides for convenience, safety, and success!