WASHINGTON – The Environmental Protection Agency today issued a proposed decision to allow a highly toxic agricultural chemical for use on crops like oats, wheat and barley grown in the U.S.
If finalized, the decision would mark the first-ever approval for using the dangerous pesticide chlormequat chloride on U.S. food. The agency says it will take public comment on the proposal through May 26.
"The EPA proposal to allow chlormequat to be sprayed on crops that ultimately become the main ingredients in foods we eat, like cereals, is a serious mistake that puts the health and safety of the American public, especially children, at risk,” said EWG Vice President for Science Investigations Olga Naidenko, Ph.D.
“Animal studies show chlormequat can disrupt fetal growth and damage the reproductive system, raising serious concerns about how this chemical could harm human health, especially children,” said Alexis Temkin, Ph.D., EWG senior toxicologist.
“The EPA should put the health and well-being of the public over the narrow, profit-fueled interests of the pesticide industry and big agribusiness operations,” Naidenko added.
Previously, chlormequat was only allowed for use on ornamental plants in the U.S., but it still shows up in the U.S. food supply due to chlormequat use on imported grains.
In January, EWG published the results of an investigation that found, for the first time, troubling concentrations of chlormequat in oat-based products sold in the U.S., including everyday brands marketed to adults and children.
EWG has submitted comments to the EPA strongly urging it not to allow chlormequat to be used on crops grown in the U.S.
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The Environmental Working Group (EWG) is a nonprofit, non-partisan organization that empowers people to live healthier lives in a healthier environment. Through research, advocacy and unique education tools, EWG drives consumer choice and civic action.
