Where It Comes From
Agricultural pest control on many crops; residues can remain on food and reach nearby water [1].
How You Are Exposed
Eating produce with residues, drinking water near farming areas, or breathing/skin contact during mixing, applying, or entering recently treated fields [1][2].
Why It Matters
It inhibits cholinesterase, a key nerve enzyme. Short-term exposure can cause headache, nausea, sweating, pinpoint pupils, weakness, and breathing trouble; severe poisoning can be life‑threatening [2]. Repeated exposure can depress cholinesterase and affect the nervous system; some developmental effects were seen in animal studies at high doses [1].
Who Is at Risk
Farmworkers and applicators; people living near treated fields; infants and children (diet and developing nervous systems); users of private wells in agricultural areas [1][2].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Wash and peel produce; follow posted re‑entry times after spraying; use label directions and protective gear when handling; keep children and pets away from treated areas; remove shoes and wash work clothes separately; consider testing private well water if you live near intensive agriculture [1][2].