Canada approves GS-omega/kappa-Hxtx-Hv1a, SPEAR T and SPEAR-LEP

Health Canada's Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA), under the authority of the Pest Control Products Act, is granting registration for the sale and use of VST-006335 MP Technical, SPEAR T and SPEAR-LEP, containing the technical grade active ingredient GS-omega/kappa-Hxtx-Hv1a, to control or suppress thrips, whiteflies, mites, spotted-wing drosophila and listed Lepidopteran pests on various listed field and greenhouse crops and cannabis.

GS-omega/kappa-Hxtx-Hv1a is a peptide derived from the venom of a species of Australian funnel spider (Hadronyche versuta). The active ingredient affects the insect nervous system.

SPEAR T is intended for use on several agricultural field and greenhouse crops and cannabis to manage thrips, whiteflies, spider mites, and spotted wing drosophila. SPEAR-LEP is intended for use on fruit and vegetable crops to control Lepidopteran pests.

SPEAR T and SPEAR-LEP are to be used in alternation with other registered insecticides as part of an Integrated Pest Management program. SPEAR-LEP is mixed with a tank mix partner containing Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) subspecies kurstaki or aizawai. It is thought that the activity of Bt on the insect gut assists the mode of action of SPEAR-LEP.

The Proposed Registration Decision PRD2023-02, GS-omega/kappa-Hxtx-Hv1a, SPEAR T and SPEAR-LEP, containing the detailed evaluation of the information submitted in support of this registration, underwent a 45-day consultation period ending on 20 April 2023. The evaluation found that, under the approved conditions of use, the health and environmental risks and the value of the pest control products are acceptable. Health Canada received one comment relating to the health assessment during the public consultation period conducted in accordance with section 28 of the Pest Control Products Act.