What are the laws concerning the use of chemicals in food production?
In Washington State, the use of chemicals in food production is regulated by the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA). The WSDA enforces the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) and the Washington State Pesticide Control Act. FIFRA regulates the use of pesticides in food production. Pesticides are chemical agents used to kill pests such as insects, fungi, and rodents. FIFRA requires that pesticide application be done in a manner that minimizes risks to human health, the environment, and non-target organisms. It also requires that applicators be licensed and trained in the proper use of pesticides. The Washington State Pesticide Control Act also regulates the use of pesticides. This act requires that any pesticide used in the production of food must be registered with the WSDA and must meet the requirements for safety and efficacy set out by the act. The act also requires that applicators be certified in the use of pesticides. Furthermore, the WSDA requires that products containing pesticide residues be labeled to indicate that they have been treated with a pesticide. Labels must contain the active ingredient, the company that manufactured the pesticide, and the EPA registration number. In order to ensure the safety of the food supply, the WSDA performs regular inspections of food processing facilities and may test food products for the presence of pesticide residues. If pesticide residues are found to be above the levels set by the WSDA, the food product or pesticide application may be banned.
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