Which federal agency is responsible for registering or licensing pesticide products for use in the United States?

Which federal agency is responsible for registering or licensing pesticide products for use in the United States?

• A. U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
• B. None of the above
• C. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
• D. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

Answer: (D)

Pesticide products must be registered with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency before they can be sold or used in the United States. Under FIFRA, the EPA reviews data on health effects, environmental impact, and exposure to ensure the product can be used safely, and the product’s label must include clear directions, restrictions, and precautions. Without this registration, a pesticide cannot be marketed. The other agencies don’t handle registration: USDA is focused on agricultural programs and plant health, and FDA regulates food safety and labeling but does not register pesticide products.

Pesticide products must be registered with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency before they can be sold or used in the United States. Under FIFRA, the EPA reviews data on health effects, environmental impact, and exposure to ensure the product can be used safely, and the product’s label must include clear directions, restrictions, and precautions. Without this registration, a pesticide cannot be marketed. The other agencies don’t handle registration: USDA is focused on agricultural programs and plant health, and FDA regulates food safety and labeling but does not register pesticide products.