US sugar growers can now use a pesticide that is not approved in the US

US environmental regulators have approved a tolerance level for residues of ethiprole on sugarcane. This means sugarcane grown in the US can now contain this pesticide, even though the pesticide itself is not registered for use in the US.

This rule allows US sugar growers to use a pesticide that is not otherwise approved for sale or use in the United States. It creates a loophole where a chemical can be present in food without being subject to the full regulatory process for domestic pesticides. This could change the cost structure for sugar production by allowing access to cheaper or more effective pest control methods.