The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has addressed recent misinformation about its pesticide approvals, clarifying that the agency has not approved any "forever chemical" pesticides. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin emphasized the agency's commitment to science-based standards and compliance with the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA). He said that protecting American families is a priority and that all approved pesticides undergo thorough safety evaluations.
Administrator Zeldin noted in an X post that single fluorinated compounds are not considered PFAS or "forever chemicals." This classification was made in 2023 by the EPA's Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics after a public rulemaking process. The decision was based on scientific evidence showing that molecules with only one fluorinated carbon do not have the persistence and bioaccumulation properties typical of forever chemicals.
The EPA's evaluation process found no human health risks when these pesticides are used according to their labels. The assessment included toxicity studies across species, evaluations of children's safety, reproductive and chronic health impacts, and environmental exposure analysis.
These modern pesticides are considered safer than older alternatives like organochlorines such as DDT and dieldrin. They represent significant safety improvements for agriculture. The compounds are not used for water fluoridation despite containing fluorine atoms.
Historically, both Republican and Democrat administrations have registered dozens of pesticides containing single fluorinated carbons. Internationally, countries with stringent safety standards such as the European Union, Canada, Australia, Brazil, Argentina, New Zealand, and South Korea have also approved these compounds.
For consumers concerned about pesticide use, organic products remain an option. However, it is important to note that organic farming also uses pesticides, some of which may have higher toxicity profiles than modern synthetic alternatives.
Pesticides play a crucial role in agriculture by protecting crops from pests and diseases and ensuring an affordable food supply. They help prevent crop losses that could increase food prices and reduce the need for additional farmland.
The international scientific community supports the safety of single fluorinated carbons. Regulatory agencies worldwide have validated their safety.
Information from this article can be found here.
