Texas Pesticide Applicator Practice Exam

Can a harvested crop legally contain more pesticide residue than the set tolerances?

1. Yes, with proper documentation

2. No, it cannot be legally sold

3. Yes, if the pesticide is organic

4. Yes, if it is for personal use

The correct answer is: No, it cannot be legally sold

The correct answer is that a harvested crop cannot contain more pesticide residue than the established tolerances and still be legally sold. The tolerances are the maximum levels of pesticide residues that are allowed in or on food products as established by regulatory agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the United States. These tolerances are set to ensure consumer safety and to minimize any potential health risks associated with pesticide exposure through food consumption. The regulatory framework is designed to protect public health, which is why exceeding these tolerances makes the crop unfit for sale. Agricultural producers are obligated to adhere to these limits during pesticide application, and failure to do so can lead to enforcement actions, including fines or revocation of licenses. It's important to understand that tolerances do not differentiate between types of pesticide products, including organic pesticides. Regardless of the classification, if a crop exceeds the established pesticide residue limits, it cannot be marketed for consumption. Furthermore, personal use does not exempt a product from these regulations when it comes to selling any harvested crops. Thus, ensuring compliance with pesticide residue tolerances is crucial for food safety standards.