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Are the Chemicals They Spray on Crops Harmful?

Most of the chemicals sprayed on crops are pesticides. Pesticides not only rid plants of weeds and insects but also fungi and bacteria. In 2001, herbicides, which specifically kill weeds, accounted for around 64 percent of pesticide usage in the United States, according to Center for Food Safety. Insecticide, on the hand, only accounted for 11 percent of pesticide usage.

  1. Potential Environmental Harm

    • The widespread usage of chemicals triggers health concerns for many consumers. Spray chemicals not only affect the crops they reside on but also may contaminate the soil and nearby water sources. During periods of heavy rain, chemicals that are sprayed on crops may run off into nearby waterways or end up in the public's groundwater. This may be potentially harmful given that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that 50 percent of the United States relies on groundwater for drinking water.

    Safety of Spray Chemicals

    • Before crops can be sprayed with pesticides, the EPA must establish that the chemical has a reasonable certainty of not causing any harm to the public. Though numerous tests and evaluations have been formed on spray chemicals, some chemicals may alter the health of humans. According to the Center for Food Safety, pesticides may contribute to cancer risks, immune system disorders and neurological disorders. The EPA warns that the chemicals sprayed on crops may more likely harm young children. These chemicals may injure a child's growing internal organs and block absorption of nutrients. Chemical drifts may also harm the health of fish, bees, birds and other wildlife.

    Possible Benefits of Chemical Sprays

    • Chemicals may provide some benefits. Chemicals can increase the amount of food production. Pests, weeds and diseases damage as much as 40 percent of the crops in the world, according to CropLife America, an association dedicated to protecting crops. By helping farmers produce more crops, pesticides also lower the consumer's food costs. Crops treated with chemicals tend to be high-quality produce.

    Precautions

    • Some places require that the public be notified before chemicals are sprayed on crops. Notices are typically displayed in letters, flyers and newspapers. To reduce chemical exposure, the EPA suggests rinsing and scrubbing fruits and vegetables before consuming them. Organic fruit and vegetables contain less chemicals than conventionally grown crops. If you are exposed directly to sprayed chemicals, the pesticides should be washed off immediately after exposure. Poison control and a health care provider should also be contacted as soon as possible, especially if a young child has been exposed.

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