Fact-checked by Lucent 3 months ago
Total Sources: 51
Verified Claims: 37
Scientific Sources: 22
Propargite is a pesticide used to control mites on various crops and ornamentals [15], [23], [24]. It works by inhibiting mitochondrial ATP synthase in mites [23].
High
News sources express concern over potential health risks and regulatory decisions regarding propargite and other pesticides [19], [20], [22]. Some advocate for stricter regulations and increased transparency [19], [20], [25]. Anecdotal sources reflect concerns about pesticide exposure and preferences for organic options [39], [40], [41], [42], [43], [44], [45], [46], [47].
Propargite was first registered as a pesticide in the U.S [15].
EPA issued a Registration Standard for Propargite [15].
An agreement between the EPA and the registrant led to voluntary cancellation of certain uses due to unacceptable dietary risk [15].
Tolerances for 10 uses of propargite were revoked [15].
EPA issued a notice of availability for the modification and closure of the Reregistration Eligibility Decision for propargite [17].
Propargite has low acute toxicity via oral and dermal routes but is severely irritating to the skin and eyes [15].
It is classified as a probable human carcinogen based on the appearance of intestinal tumors in test animals [15].
Dietary exposure to propargite is generally low, with exposure from current tolerances representing a small percentage of the acute and chronic population adjusted dose [15].
MRLs (Maximum Residue Levels) set by Codex Alimentarius Commission were found to not be adequately supported by data, preventing consumer risk assessment [2].
Pesticide residues in food: 2023: toxicological evaluations / Joint Meeting of the FAO Panel of Experts on Pesticide Residues in Food and the Environment and the WHO Core Assessment Group on Pesticide Residues
This publication is the toxicological monograph from the 2023 Joint Meeting on Pesticide Residues (JMPR) [1].
Review of the existing MRLs for propargite
CXLs (Codex Alimentarius Commission) were found not to be adequately supported by data and a consumer risk assessment could not be carried out [2].
Residential Proximity to Pesticide Application as a Risk Factor for Childhood Central Nervous System Tumors
Residential proximity to pesticide application may be a risk factor for childhood central nervous system tumors [7].
A pesticide and iPSC dopaminergic neuron screen identifies and classifies Parkinson-relevant pesticides
Pesticides may be linked to Parkinson's disease [14].
Evaluation of Propargyl Alcohol Toxicity and Carcinogenicity in F344/N Rats and B6C3F1/N Mice Following Whole-body Inhalation Exposure
Long term inhalation exposure to propargyl alcohol led to nonneoplastic changes in the nose, and increased incidences of respiratory/transitional epithelial adenomas in both mice and rats [48].
Propargite is classified as a probable human carcinogen based on animal studies [15]. Long term inhalation exposure to propargyl alcohol, used in the synthesis of propargite, led to increased incidences of respiratory/transitional epithelial adenomas in both mice and rats [48]. It can cause skin and eye irritation and is highly toxic to amphibians, fish, and zooplankton [15], [23].
While dietary exposure to propargite is generally low, concerns remain regarding its potential carcinogenicity and other health effects, particularly with long-term exposure [15]. Some studies suggest potential links to cancer and neurological disorders, but more research is needed [7], [8], [14].
Organic Produce
Choosing certified organic produce reduces exposure to synthetic pesticides [33], [37].
Where to find: Grocery stores, farmers' markets [37]
Snap Peas
As a safer alternative to green beans, which may have high-risk pesticide residues [35].
Where to find: Grocery stores, farmers' markets [37]
Sweet Potatoes
As a safer alternative to potatoes, which may have high-risk pesticide residues [35].
Where to find: Grocery stores, farmers' markets [37]
15.
https://www3.epa.gov/pesticides/chem_search/reg_actions/reregistration/fs_PC-097601_18-May-10.pdf34.
https://www.consumerreports.org/health/food-contaminants/reduce-the-pesticides-you-eat-a7914765878/