Oklahoma Applicators License Core Practice Exam

Who sets the residue tolerances for pesticides in crops and animal products?

1. The USDA

2. The FDA

3. The EPA

4. The state agricultural department

The correct answer is: The EPA

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is responsible for establishing residue tolerances for pesticides in crops and animal products. This regulatory function is part of the EPA's broader mandate to ensure that pesticides used in agricultural practices do not pose unacceptable risks to human health and the environment. The agency evaluates scientific data and assesses potential health impacts before approving pesticide use and setting specific tolerance levels, which are the maximum amounts of pesticide residue that can legally remain on or in food products. These tolerances are crucial for protecting consumers by helping to ensure that the food supply is safe, as they provide a guideline to farmers and pesticide applicators about the acceptable limits for pesticide residues. Understanding this role of the EPA is essential for complying with agricultural laws and maintaining food safety standards.