ASTA Request to Extend the Comment Deadline on EPA's Proposed Interim Decision for EtO

This document is ASTA's comment letter to Maryland Senator Brian J. Feldman regarding Ethylene Oxide Prohibition. ASTA opposes Senate Bill 916, which seeks to prohibit the use of ethylene oxide on spices, expressing concerns that it would severely harm Maryland-based companies and disrupt the supply of safe spices. ASTA emphasizes the critical role of ethylene oxide in ensuring spice safety, cites the lack of viable alternatives, and notes ongoing efforts to reduce emissions in collaboration with federal and state policymakers.

ASTA issued comments to the Office of Pesticide Programs at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in November 2005 regarding the ethylene oxide (ETO) risk assessment. Comments cover ETO use in the spice industry, limitations for alternative treatment techniques, the method used to apply ETO to spices, personnel protective equipment used by workers, and worker risk assessment.