Pesticides in the Diets of Infants and Children

Many of the pesticides applied to food crops in this country are present in foods in trace amounts. Current regulations are intended to minimize the general population's exposure to these residues while ensuring an abundant and wholesome food supply. This book explores whether infants and children differ from adults in susceptibility and in dietary exposures to pesticide residues, and if so, whether present regulatory approaches adequately protect them. The book summarizes the current status of pesticide use, relevant data collection methods such as food consumption surveys, methods for toxicity testing, and federal pesticide regulation. Details the special characteristics of children--growth, development, metabolism--and analyzes toxicity information based on their exposure to pesticides.