Minnesota Pesticide Applicator Practice Test

What is the maximum pesticide residue limit that may legally remain on treated crops sold for food?

1. Tolerance

2. MAL (Maximum Allowed Limit)

3. MAR (Maximum Allowed Residue)

4. Extraction limit

The correct answer is: Tolerance

The maximum pesticide residue limit that may legally remain on treated crops sold for food is referred to as a tolerance. This term is defined and established by regulatory agencies, such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the United States. Tolerance levels are set based on safety assessments which evaluate the potential risks to human health and the environment when consuming these crops. Setting a tolerance ensures that pesticide residues are kept within safe levels, considering factors like the method of application and the amount of pesticide used. This legal framework is crucial for protecting consumers and ensuring that agricultural practices can continue without posing undue risk. Tolerances apply to specific crops and specific pesticides, ensuring that each combination has been thoroughly evaluated for safety. In contrast, the other terms like Maximum Allowed Limit or Maximum Allowed Residue are not standard terminologies used in the regulation of pesticide residues. The term "extraction limit" is also not applicable in this context, as it does not pertain to regulatory limits on pesticide residues in food crops.