Call for Change to Pesticide Build-up TestsMarch 10, 2004Current methods of predicting short-term intake of pesticide residues by humans should be improved, according to a new study published in the journal Pest Management Science. In the article, researchers from around the world come together to review existing safety measures and make eleven recommendations based on their research. Studies suggest that a single, or short-term exposure can affect health, as well as long term exposure. 'The publication will prove an invaluable resource for risk assessors throughout the world,' says UK team member, Dr Caroline Harris. Why it matters Pesticide residues from one meal, or over one day, can be much higher than the average lifetime intake - the consumer might eat a larger than average amount of a specific food, and that food may have a higher than average residue level. Although extremely rare, single exposures to some pesticide residues have been known to be toxic. Organophosphates and Carbamates, for example, can depress cholinesterase activity in animals and humans if the dose is high enough, leading to negative clinical symptoms such as sickness and headaches. But the authors note that 'such symptoms have only been seen in extreme cases where severe mis-use has occurred.' Consumer risk assessment is a crucial element in the approval, registration and licensing of pesticide uses on food crops. It is necessary to understand how much is consumed in order to conduct an assessment of potential risk. The experiments Data on pesticide residues in fruit and vegetables from across the world was combined with surveys made on human diets, considering both individual and household consumption of food in different forms - canned, frozen or fresh. The results underwent rigorous examination to update methods that determine potential short-term risk of exposure to the consumer. The study shows that the crop type and size don't matter - it's the way the pesticide is deposited on the individual food unit during application that is likely to make the difference. The researchers emphasise that the findings will be particularly valuable to the Codex Alimentarius Commission - the body responsible for setting standards for pesticides residues in food commodities for world trade. Society of Chemical Industry |
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| Related Pesticide Current Events and Pesticide News Articles An inexpensive 'dipstick' test for pesticides in foods Scientists in Canada are reporting the development of a fast, inexpensive "dipstick" test to identify small amounts of pesticides that may exist in foods and beverages. Pesticides exposure linked to suicidal thoughts A new study in China has found that people with higher levels of pesticide exposure are more likely to have suicidal thoughts. Getting plants to rid themselves of pesticide residues Scientists in China have discovered that a natural plant hormone, applied to crops, can help plants eliminate residues of certain pesticides. The study is in the current issue of ACS' Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, a bi-weekly publication. Study shows more corn for biofuels would hurt water More of the fertilizers and pesticides used to grow corn would find their way into nearby water sources if ethanol demands lead to planting more acres in corn, according to a Purdue University study. New computing tool could lead to better crops and pesticides say researchers A new computing tool that could help scientists predict how plants will react to different environmental conditions in order to create better crops, such as tastier and longer lasting tomatoes, is being developed by researchers. Getting plants to rid themselves of pesticide residues Scientists in China are reporting the "intriguing" discovery that a natural plant hormone, applied to crops, can help plants eliminate residues of certain pesticides. Organic weed control for dandelions Spring and summer often find homeowners out in their yards, busily attempting to control the onslaught of dandelions in a quest for green, weed-free lawns. Environmental effects of cold-climate strawberry farming Strawberries are America's fifth-favorite fruit, according to consumption rates. California and Florida grow more than 95% of the nation's strawberries; an additional 12,000 acres are planted in other states. Pesticides -- easier detection of pollution and impact in rivers The long-term effects of pesticides on living organisms in rivers and on water quality can now be assessed more easily. Pitt research suggests EPA pesticide exposure test too short, overlooks long term effects The four-day testing period the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) commonly uses to determine safe levels of pesticide exposure for humans and animals could fail to account for the toxins' long-term effects, University of Pittsburgh researchers report in the September edition of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry. More Pesticide Current Events and Pesticide News Articles |
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