WASHINGTON (CN) - The Environmental Protection Agency is allowing processed food to contain more of a cleaning solution chemical than it had before, according to a new rule.
A newly amended EPA regulation allows 400 parts per million, instead of 240, of Didecyl Dimethyl Ammonium in the carbonate or bicarbonate form, on cleaned surfaces in public eating places and food and beverage factories.
"Residues from treated surfaces, such as appliances, countertops, equipment, and utensils can migrate to food coming into contact with the treated and rinsed surfaces and can be ingested by humans," the EPA said in the new rule.
The request for the change came from chemical company Lonza, Inc., according to the rule. Lonza uses a form of the same chemical in pressure-treated wood, and oil and gasoline cleaners, according to its website.
The EPA will accept written objections and requests for a hearing by Oct. 22.
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