USDA Releases 2023 Pesticide Data Program Annual Summary

WASHINGTON, Nov. 7, 2024 - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today published the 2023 Pesticide Data Program (PDP) Annual Summary. The summary shows that more than 99 percent of the samples tested had pesticide residues below benchmark levels established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).<_o3a_p>

Each year, USDA and EPA work together to identify foods to be tested on a rotating basis by the PDP. In 2023, tests were conducted on 9,832 samples from 21 commodities of fresh and processed fruits and vegetables, and nuts. AMS partners with cooperating state agencies to collect and analyze pesticide residue levels on the selected food commodities.<_o3a_p>

USDA tests a wide variety of domestic and imported foods, with a strong focus on foods that are consumed by infants and children. EPA relies on PDP data to conduct dietary risk assessments and to ensure that any pesticide residues in foods remain at or below levels that EPA has set. The data also provide regulators, farmers, processors, manufacturers, consumers and scientists with important insights into the actual levels of pesticide residues found on widely consumed foods.<_o3a_p>

The annual pesticide residue results are reported to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and EPA in monthly reports as testing takes place throughout the year. FDA and EPA are immediately notified if a PDP test discovers residue levels that could pose a public safety concern.<_o3a_p>

The 2023 data and summary can be found on the Pesticide Data Program page of the AMS website. Inquiries may be addressed to the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service, Science and Technology Program, Monitoring Programs Division by e-mail at [email protected].<_o3a_p>

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For more information about pesticides and food, please visit the EPA website and the FDA website.

AMS administers programs that create domestic and international marketing opportunities for U.S. producers of food, fiber, and specialty crops. AMS also provides the agriculture industry with valuable services to ensure the quality and availability of wholesome food for consumers across the country and globally. AMS services and its significant grant investments create opportunities by supporting American farmers, ranchers and businesses across the supply chain, and drive economic development in small towns and rural communities.

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USDA touches the lives of all Americans each day in so many positive ways. In the Biden-Harris Administration, USDA is transforming America's food system with a greater focus on more resilient local and regional food production, fairer markets for all producers, ensuring access to safe, healthy and nutritious food in all communities, building new markets and streams of income for farmers and producers using climate smart food and forestry practices, making historic investments in infrastructure and clean energy capabilities in rural America, and committing to equity across the Department by removing systemic barriers and building a workforce more representative of America. To learn more, visit www.usda.gov.

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