Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE) Practice Exam

Which act established maximum levels of pesticide residues allowed on food?

1. FIFRA

2. FFDCA

3. Food Quality Protection Act

4. Pest Control Act

The correct answer is: FFDCA

The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA) is the legislation that established maximum levels of pesticide residues allowed on food. This act provides the framework for setting tolerances or allowable limits for pesticide residues on raw agricultural commodities and processed foods, ensuring that they are safe for consumption. It addresses public health concerns by regulating the levels of chemical residues that can remain on food products, ultimately aiming to protect consumers from potential harmful effects of these chemicals. FIFRA, in contrast, primarily focuses on the registration, distribution, and use of pesticides to ensure they do not pose unreasonable risks to human health and the environment. The Food Quality Protection Act amended the FFDCA and introduced additional safety standards, particularly concerning the protection of children and sensitive populations, but the foundational limits on pesticide residues originated from the FFDCA. The Pest Control Act is not directly related to food safety but rather pertains to pest management practices.