Where It Comes From
Post-harvest treatments on bananas, citrus, apples, and potatoes; some seed/field uses; veterinary and human medicines [1][2].
How You Are Exposed
Mostly by eating treated fruits and vegetables; also when mixing or applying it at farms or packinghouses; less from water or dust near use sites [1][2].
Why It Matters
Short-term exposure can cause nausea, dizziness, or irritation; long-term high doses affected the liver in studies. EPA does not consider it likely to cause cancer at typical exposures [1][2].
Who Is at Risk
Farmworkers and packers; young children and people who are pregnant; people with liver disease; those who eat a lot of treated produce [1][3].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Wash, scrub, and peel produce; vary your diet; choose organic when possible; workers should follow labels and use protective gear [1][4].
References
- [1]U.S. EPA. Reregistration Eligibility Decision (RED) for Thiabendazole. Office of Pesticide Programs, 2002.
- [2]WHO/FAO Joint Meeting on Pesticide Residues (JMPR). Thiabendazole: toxicological and residue evaluations.
- [3]CDC/ATSDR. Protecting Children from Pesticide Exposure.
- [4]U.S. EPA. Food and Pesticides: Steps to Reduce Exposure.