What is the Food Quality Protection Act and how does it relate to agricultural production?

The Food Quality Protection Act (FQPA) is a federal law enacted in 1996 that primarily protects human health by regulating the use of potentially hazardous pesticides in the production of agricultural products. The FQPA requires that tolerances (maximum legally permissible levels of chemical residues) be established in food, taking into account dietary exposure and toxicological factors. The FQPA also provides protection against pesticide residue in drinking water by requiring pesticide manufacturers to provide information about the potential of a given pesticide to contaminate surface and ground water supplies. FQPA also directs the EPA to consider additional safety factors when pesticide tolerances are set and when making registration and re-registration decisions on pesticide products. In Texas, the Department of Agriculture administers pesticide laws to ensure that agricultural producers are compliant with FQPA regulations. In addition, inspectors monitor grower sites and compliance with FQPA related regulations, such as soil and water sampling to test for potential pesticide contamination, as well as determining eligibility for funding for best management practices to prevent pesticide contamination. Overall, the FQPA establishes a legal framework which ensures that pesticides are used in a manner that is protective of human health and the environment. This law is important for the safety of agricultural products produced in Texas, as it ensures that the most hazardous pesticides are regulated and that all residue levels remain within safe levels.

What is the Food Quality Protection Act and how does it relate to agricultural production?

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