Question

which of the following statements about pesticides and residue is false?
a. most conventionally grown produce has detectable levels of pesticides when purchased from the store.
b. the us government has determined that small levels of pesticides in produce is safe for human consumption.
c. organic produce always will be pesticide-free.
d. farm workers, children, and pregnant women are at greatest health risk from pesticides.

please select the best answer from the choices provided.

Explanation:

Analyze the question and options

The question asks to identify the false statement regarding pesticides and residue. Let's evaluate each option based on agricultural science and food safety standards.

Evaluate Option A and Option B

• Option A states that most conventionally grown produce has detectable levels of pesticides. This is true; testing consistently shows trace pesticide residues on conventional crops.
• Option B states that the US government (via the EPA and FDA) sets tolerance levels, determining that small, regulated levels of pesticide residues are safe for human consumption. This is true.

Evaluate Option C and Option D

• Option C states that organic produce always will be pesticide-free. This is false. While Organic Farming practices restrict synthetic pesticides, organic crops can still contain pesticide residues due to environmental drift from neighboring conventional farms, soil contamination, or the use of approved organic/natural pesticides.
• Option D states that farm workers, children, and pregnant women are at the greatest health risk from pesticides. This is true due to higher exposure levels and developmental vulnerabilities.

Answer:

• A. Most conventionally grown produce has detectable levels of pesticides when purchased from the store.
• B. The US government has determined that small levels of pesticides in produce is safe for human consumption.
• C. Organic produce always will be pesticide-free. (Correct answer)
• D. Farm workers, children, and pregnant women are at greatest health risk from pesticides.