Texas Pesticide Applicator Practice Exam

What are the two types of tolerances set by the EPA for pesticide applications?

1. Organic and Non-organic

2. Exempt and Non-exempt

3. Negligible residue and finite

4. Direct and Indirect

The correct answer is: Negligible residue and finite

The correct answer identifies the two types of tolerances set by the EPA as negligible residue and finite. Tolerances are defined as the maximum amount of pesticide residue that can be legally present on food and feed products. Negligible residue refers to situations where pesticide levels are so low that they do not pose a risk to human health, making them practically undetectable and therefore acceptable in very small quantities. This type of tolerance is significant because it allows for the use of certain pesticides while ensuring safety for consumers, promoting public health and confidence in food safety. Finite tolerances, on the other hand, are established for specific pesticides that may leave higher levels of residue on food and feed. These levels are calculated based on rigorous risk assessments, taking into account various factors such as dietary exposure, potential health risks, and the intended use of the pesticides. These tolerances ensure that while pesticides can be used effectively, their residues remain within safe and acceptable limits for consumers. The other choices do not represent the established categories of tolerances recognized by the EPA. For example, organic and non-organic primarily address farming practices rather than pesticide residue levels. Exempt and non-exempt may pertain to regulatory classifications but do not specify the residue tolerances related to