QAL Laws & Regulation Practice Exam

What federal law governs the establishment of pesticide tolerances for food and feed products?

1. Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act

2. Pesticide Control Act

3. Food Safety Modernization Act

4. Clean Water Act

The correct answer is: Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act

The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA) governs the establishment of pesticide tolerances for food and feed products. Under this law, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is responsible for setting permissible levels of pesticide residues that may remain on or in food commodities. The FFDCA ensures that these levels are safe for human consumption and that they do not pose a risk to public health. The act requires the EPA to assess the potential risks of pesticide residues and to establish tolerances only when they meet established safety standards. This framework is essential for regulating pesticides in a way that protects consumers while allowing for the use of these substances in agricultural practices. In comparing the other options: the Pesticide Control Act primarily relates to the regulation of pesticide distribution and use rather than tolerances on food products. The Food Safety Modernization Act focuses on broader food safety improvements rather than specifically addressing pesticide tolerances. The Clean Water Act primarily relates to the regulation of water pollution and does not govern pesticide residues in food and feed products. Therefore, the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act stands out as the correct answer for establishing pesticide tolerances.