USDA Opens Public Comment on Genetically Engineered Apple T1190

On February 10, 2026, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)'s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) announced a 60-day public comment period on a petition to deregulate a genetically engineered apple T1190 developed for early juvenile and near continuous blooming. If approved, the variety would no longer be subject to federal regulation under current biotechnology rules.

USDA APHIS has received a petition from the USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) seeking nonregulated status for the T1190 apple, stating it is unlikely to pose a plant pest risk and therefore should not be regulated under APHIS' regulations in 7 CFR part 340. As part of its review, USDA APHIS prepared a draft plant pest risk assessment (PPRA) and found no evidence that the T1190 apple poses a greater plant pest risk than conventional apples.

APHIS has opened a 60-day public comment period from the date of notice until April 13, 2026. USDA APHIS encourages the submission of scientific data and research, particularly on biological and ecological issues. After reviewing all comments and relevant information, APHIS will respond to the petition to deregulate the T1190 apple and publish its regulatory determination on its website.

For more information, read the announcement and notice from USDA APHIS.