Adverse Reactions to Produce Pesticides

Reproductive Problems

On average, Americans are exposed to from ten to thirteen pesticide residues on food each day, according to the Pesticide Action Network. Glysophate is the most commonly used pesticide for home garden weed control and large-scale agricultural business. The chemical "inert ingredients" listed on pesticide labels are trademarked secrets that are not revealed to the public. The synergistic effect of active and inert ingredients is not routinely tested by the EPA for safety. Glyphosate in combination with "inert ingredients" has been shown to cause cell death and reproductive abnormalities, according to a study at the University of Caen in France.

One in six U.S. children has one or more developmental disabilities, according to the Journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics. Children are at increased risk when exposed to pesticides on food. A developing brain is more vulnerable to the effects of toxic chemicals than a developed brain. The group of pesticides known as organophosphates change brain function, impair learning and contribute to ADHD. Mothers exposed to organochloride pesticides are six times more likely to have children with autism spectrum disorders.

Adverse effects of produce pesticides include asthma and other breathing disorders. Home garden pesticide sprays include label warnings about inhalation of the product. Pyrethin and tetramethrin insecticides are implicated in acute allergic respiratory reactions. All organophosphate pesticides on produce disrupt the autonomic nervous system, and may be a contributing factor in childhood respiratory problems. Diazinon pesticide causes rhinitis, a nose inflammation that makes breathing difficult.

The endocrine system produces thyroxine, estrogen, testosterone and adrenaline. Over 50 active ingredient pesticides used on produce are known to disrupt the endocrine system's guidance of growth, development, reproduction and behavior. Endocrine disruption is linked to ADHD, heart disease, early puberty, diabetes, childhood and adult cancer and reproductive disorders. Early puberty onset--occurring from ages eight to 10--is linked to chemical exposure that stimulates sex hormones.