EPA Registers Bio Pesticide

May 23, 2000

The Environmental Protection Agency has registered a "biochemical pesticide," the Harpin protein, designed as an alternative to conventional, synthetic pesticides such as methyl bromide. The protein doesn't act directly on the target pest; it activates a natural defense mechanism in the host plant.

That makes the plant resistant to a wide range of fungal, bacterial and viral diseases, according to EPA. The protein also protects against certain nematodes and fungal diseases that have few effective controls except methyl bromide.

Methyl bromide is a broad spectrum pesticides believed to contribute to stratospheric ozone depletion and have adverse effects on human health. The Harpin protein (trade name MESSENGERTM) is non-toxic and not expected to pose risks to human health or the environment.

Because the product is applied at low rates and degrades rapidly in the field, no residues are expected on treated crops. Also, studies demonstrate no toxicity to humans and no adverse effects on many species of wildlife.

During its experimental use, the protein was used on tomatoes as a component of integrated pest management programs, thereby decreasing the use of conventional pesticides by 70 percent while outperforming them in effectiveness.

EDEN Biosciences Corp., Bothell, WA, was granted registrations both for the Harpin protein and MESSENGERTM, the only product containing the protein as an ingredient.

More information is available on the Internet at http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/biopesticides