The Environmental Protection Agency announced a proposed rule to revoke tolerances for chlorpyrifos, which establishes the amount of a pesticide that’s allowed on food. This rule revokes all tolerances for chlorpyrifos (klor·peeruh·faas), except for those tolerances associated with the 11 food and feed crops that would remain registered. EPA says it’s taking this action in response to a decision by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit.
“EPA continues to prioritize the health of children,” says Michal Freedhoff of the EPA. “This proposed rule is a critical step forward as we work to reduce chlorpyrifos in or on food and to better protect people, including infants and children, from exposure to chemicals that are harmful to human health.” Chlorpyrifos is an organophosphate insecticide that was used in a large variety of ways in agriculture, including soybeans, fruit and nut trees, vegetables, and other row crops, as well as many non-food uses.
- NAFB