What does the term "pesticide tolerance" refer to?

Pesticide tolerance refers specifically to the maximum level of pesticide residue that is permitted on food and feed products. This regulation is important for ensuring food safety and protecting public health. Regulatory agencies, such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the United States, establish tolerance levels based on scientific assessments of how much of a pesticide can remain on a product without posing any health risks to consumers.

By determining these levels, the authorities can help prevent excessive exposure to harmful chemicals while allowing for the use of pesticides in agriculture, as long as producers adhere to the established limits. This concept is crucial in the context of food production, as it balances the need for pest control in crops with the protection of human health and safety.