The most common route of exposure to pesticides is by ingestion of treated food commodities containing residues. Most pesticide residues occur in food as a result of the direct application of a pesticide to a crop or farm animal or the post harvest treatments of food commodities.
Contaminating substances may enter the food chain at many different stages. Through various constituent like fertilizer ingredients and contaminants, irrigation water, contaminants and pesticides can enter food crops though plant roots.
Entering treated residences or work areas too soon after application could result in exposure. Some manufacturers treat clothing, furniture, carpeting and even some children’s toys with certain pesticides. The pesticides protect these items from insect damage or reduce the buildup of fungi or bacteria.
Monitoring of pesticide residues is crucial for proper assessment of human exposure to pesticides through foods. Maximum residue levels (MRLs or tolerances) or pesticides in foodstuffs and drinking waters have been set by Government agencies and the European Union Commission to guarantee consumer safety.
Human exposure pesticide
