FDA monitoring program. Residues in foods--1990.

In 1990, under regulatory monitoring, a total of 19,962 samples of domestically produced food from all 50 states and Puerto Rico and imported food from 92 countries were analyzed by FDA for pesticide residues. Of these, 19,146 were surveillance samples, which are collected when there is no suspicion of a pesticide problem. No residues were found in 60% of domestic surveillance samples and in 64% of import surveillance samples. Of the 19,146 surveillance samples, 2.8% were violative. Under the incidence/level aspect of monitoring, 172 samples of fish/shell-fish, 330 samples of whole milk, and 3502 samples of processed foods including baby foods were analyzed for pesticide residues. Findings from these projects were consistent with regulatory monitoring data. The findings of the 1990 Total Diet Study are evidence that actual dietary intakes of pesticides are generally well below the standards established by FAO/WHO and by EPA. The 1990 results are similar to those obtained in earlier years and demonstrate the continuing safety of the food supply relative to pesticide residues.