Silent Spring was a wake-up call which led to a reduction in pesticide use in the United States . When the EPA looks at a pesticide to decide whether to register it for use in the U.S., its primary concern is to ensure that there are no significant human health or environmental risks presented by the chemical. The EPA performs toxicity tests on pesticides prior to registration. The federal government prohibits use of pesticides known to cause cancer. The EPA takes the necessary precautions to ensure pesticide levels are safe for our infants and children.
Cancer is the primary risk from chronic, long-term exposure to pesticides.
Pesticides may only be used in Maine if they have gone through the EPA's registration process. Washing and peeling fruits and vegetables removes all or most pesticide residues. Imported fruits and vegetables are more likely to have pesticide residues than domestic. Eating certified organic food or growing your own food organically is the best way to avoid exposure to pesticides in your and your children's diet.