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EPA Acts to Address Carbofuran Residues in Food

Release Date: 07/24/2008
Contact Information: (news media only) Dale Kemery, (202) 564-4355 / kemery.dale@epa.gov; En español (202) 564-4355 / younes.lina@epa.gov

(7/24/08) Due to considerable risks associated with the pesticide carbofuran in food and drinking water, EPA is revoking the regulations that allow carbofuran residues in food. Even though carbofuran is used on a small percentage of the U.S. food supply and therefore the likelihood of exposure through food is low, EPA has identified risks that that do not meet our rigorous food safety standards. EPA is taking the necessary steps to address these risks to ensure we have the safest food supply possible. The United States has a safe and abundant food supply, and children and others should continue to eat a variety of foods, as recommended by the federal government and nutritional experts.

In addition, EPA is proceeding on the path toward cancellation of the pesticide registration, which will address the risks to pesticide applicators and birds in treated fields. As part of this effort, EPA is also releasing its response to the peer review conducted by the independent Scientific Advisory Panel and the agency's response to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's comments on the effect of the cancellation of carbofuran on the agricultural economy.

EPA will accept public comments on the proposed tolerance revocation for 60 days. For additional information, visit: epa.gov/pesticides/reregistration/carbofuran/carbofuran_noic.htm