Which agency regulates pesticide residues?

• A. FDA
• B. USDA
• C. NOAA
• D. EPA

Answer: (D)

The Environmental Protection Agency sets the legal limits on pesticide residues and registers pesticides, determining how much residue may remain on or in food. This agency is responsible for establishing tolerances under federal law, which provides the framework for safe use and safeguarding the food supply. While FDA enforces these EPA-established limits by testing foods and taking action on violative products, the authority to set the residue limits originates with the EPA. USDA and NOAA play different roles in food safety and environmental monitoring and do not regulate pesticide residue levels.