EPA Pulls Harmful Pesticide from the Market
Monday, August 19th, 2024 at 9:54 pm
In an unprecedented action not taken in nearly four decades, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on Tuesday announced an immediate suspension of all applications of a pesticide known to pose serious risks to fetal health.
The pesticide in question, dimethyl tetrachloroterephthalate, commonly referred to as DCPA or Dacthal, is prevalent in the cultivation of various crops, including broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, and onions. According to the EPA, exposure to this chemical during pregnancy could lead to severe health issues in newborns, such as lower birth weights, diminished brain development, reduced I.Q., and later life motor skill deficiencies.
“DCPA poses such a significant risk that its immediate market withdrawal is necessary,” stated Michal Freedhoff, EPA Assistant Administrator for the Office of Chemical Safety. “Pregnant women unknowingly exposed to it could have children who face lifelong health challenges.”
The California-based AMVAC Chemical Corporation, which is the only producer of DCPA, has yet to comment on the EPA’s order.
This drastic step follows years of concerted efforts by the EPA to compel AMVAC to provide data on the pesticide’s health impacts. The agency believes that pregnant women who handle DCPA products could encounter exposure levels that are four to 20 times higher than what is considered safe for fetal health.
It’s worth noting that DCPA has been banned in the European Union since 2009. Our firm is actively pursuing DCPA lawsuits.
