Who establishes tolerance levels of pesticides?

The establishment of tolerance levels for pesticides is primarily the responsibility of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Tolerance levels refer to the maximum amount of pesticide residue that is legally allowed in or on food and animal feed. The EPA evaluates the safety and effectiveness of pesticides before they can be used in agricultural practices, and they conduct thorough assessments of their potential health risks to humans and the environment.

This process involves reviewing data from chemical manufacturers regarding any studies on the toxicity of these substances. The EPA considers factors such as the amount of pesticide used, its potential effects on non-target organisms (including humans), and the safety of food supply. By establishing these tolerance levels, the EPA ensures that agricultural practices remain safe and the food supply is protected from harmful pesticide residues, thus playing a crucial role in public health.

The other agencies mentioned have distinct but not overlapping functions concerning food safety and public health. The FDA is responsible for the safety of food products and regulates pesticide residues in food, but it does not establish the tolerance levels itself; rather, it enforces the regulations set forth by the EPA. OSHA is focused on occupational safety and health, including exposure limits to chemicals in workplaces. The USDA oversees agricultural practices and food standards but does not determine pesticide tolerances. This deline