8.5 Ideal Chemical Policy



From a public health perspective, population health is and always be our main focus. One of the elements that I feel is most important is the data proof of any chemical compound/ and or pesticide as safe for humans at the lowest tolerance level possible made as the standard practice. An assessment of individual tolerance levels of pesticides and chemical in humans should be tested regularly. I am not suggesting to test pesticides and chemicals on humans but to routinely have the population go into the lab and get tested for pesticides and other chemicals just as we would for vaccines and shots. It should be standard blood work included in our insurance. If this was part of our medical histories, correlations between high levels of toxins could help point to potential cancer or reproductive health risks before it is too late. This is a possible solution to ensuring the health of all the population. The risks are too high and too grave among our most vulnerable populations. The persistent organic pollutants are fat soluble and not water soluble meaning these toxins specifically target humans and wildlife.
Reading that the EPA ensures levels of pesticides on our food are safe since 1996, is somewhat comforting. It is an important preliminary step. However due to the risk from consuming 1-5 fruits and vegetables is very high in the U.S it should be a priority that tolerance based on individuals rather than the pesticide/pollutant or chemical itself. This is especially important given the USDA My Plate recommendation for children 1-5 to eat 1.5 servings of fruits and vegetables per day. While many have the ability to choose organic foods, many others do not have the same option either. Some either live in low income areas with little to no access to farmer's markets or Sprouts while others just do not have the financial means to do buy produce like that. Another important step would be to set a standard for all produce to be organic. Safe, data verified chemicals used on produce, used by humans or released into the environment should be the norm. As the United States, and one of the leading forces in the world, higher standards and better chemical policies should be a priority in ensuring the nation's well-being.

Comments

  1. Krissy PamatmatOctober 20, 2017 at 4:37 PM

    Hi Mayra,

    I like your ideas for an ideal chemical policy. I agree that it is important to know what amount of pesticides that are not harmful to people. From one of the videos that I saw, Europe legally enforced a maximum residue level for pesticide residues. The maximum residue level is the amount of pesticide that it is safe for people. I think it will be a great policy to have here in the U.S. With this regulation, I think we will be able to reduce the risks of people from getting sick because of toxic chemicals. In addition, I agree that we need to set a standard that all produce should be organic. The government should also make organic foods accessible to everyone.

    - Krissy

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