Biotech Updates

U.S. Approves 20 Firms to Make Higher Blend Biofuel

April 4, 2012

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has cleared 20 companies to produce new ethanol grade 15, a significant step towards its production, sale, and use. The new grade was proposed by the industry, which is an improvement from the 9-to-1 blend of gasoline and corn-based ethanol sold in filling stations. According to EPA, E15 will be available only for cars and light trucks built since 2000, and not for light equipment or older vehicles.

"These first approvals are a clear indication that fuel producers understand that America's motorists want a choice when they fill their gas tanks," said Agriculture Secretary Vilsack.

See the EPA list of approved companies at http://www.epa.gov/otaq/regs/fuels/additive/web-e15.htm.