Two neonicotinoid seed-treatment pesticides could harm
fetuses, says a new report from the European Union.
But Canadian officials say our standards are already below
those recommended by the European research team.
Neonicotinoid pesticides are under intense pressure because
beekeepers are certain they are contributing to the death of bees.
The pesticides are popular as seed treatments, particularly
for corn.
Health Canada’s Pest Management Regulatory Agency has them
under review and has already said current practices are “not sustainable.”
The Ontario corn industry has been responding with promises
to reduce the use of neonicotinoid pesticides and to change management
practices, such as using additives that will reduce the likelihood that the pesticides
will be wafted away like dust.
A study by the European food safety agency indicates that
acetamiprid and imidacloprid neonicotinoids might harm a fetus’s developing nervous
system much as happens with exposure to nicotine.
The study says the chemicals could affect memory, learning
ability and motor use.
On that basis, the study recommends lower human exposure
standards for the chemicals.
The Toronto Star reports that a Health Canada officials says
Canada’s tolerance levels are already lower than those proposed by the European
food-safety agency.
