Where It Comes From
Applied on farms; breaks down into aldicarb sulfoxide/sulfone that can move through soil and into groundwater, especially in sandy areas [1][3].
How You Are Exposed
Eating contaminated produce, drinking affected well water, skin contact or breathing it in during mixing/application, or from nearby spray drift [1][3].
Why It Matters
Rapid cholinesterase inhibition causing nausea, sweating, pinpoint pupils, weakness, breathing trouble; severe cases can be life-threatening. WHO rates it “extremely hazardous.” Cancer evidence in humans is limited; main concern is acute neurotoxicity [1][2][3].
Who Is at Risk
Farmworkers and applicators, people living near treated fields, users of shallow private wells in farming areas, children, and pregnant people [1][3].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Wash/peel produce; use tested/safe water (test private wells if near treated fields); avoid areas during and shortly after applications; follow posted re-entry times; workers should use proper PPE and training; store pesticides securely [1][3].
References
- [1]ATSDR. Aldicarb ToxFAQs.
- [2]WHO. Recommended Classification of Pesticides by Hazard (Aldicarb: Class Ia, extremely hazardous).
- [3]U.S. EPA. Aldicarb human health risk information and regulatory actions (IRIS/registration documents).