Fenvalerate

Abstract

Evaluates the risks to human health and the environment posed by fenvalerate, a synthetic pyrethroid insecticide widely used for crop protection. Marketed since 1976, fenvalerate is also used in homes and gardens and for the control of insect infestation in cattle. A brief discussion of sources of human exposure concentrates on studies of dietary residues, concluding that residues in crops grown by good agricultural practice are generally low. A section devoted to environmental behaviour cites studies documenting the rapid degradation and decomposition of fenvalerate, the reduced toxicity of its degradation products, and the absence of leaching in soil. Other sections summarize studies of effects on aquatic and terrestrial organisms. Although laboratory tests have demonstrated high toxicity for fish and honey bees, these effects are shown to be markedly reduced under field conditions, where toxicity is mitigated by the adsorption of the compound to sediments and its strong repellent effect. The remaining sections evaluate effects on health as determined from the results of animal experimentation, in vitro tests, case studies of accidental exposure, and clinical investigations. On the basis of this review, the book concludes that exposure of the general population is very low, that the effects of occupational exposure are transitory, and that risks to the environment and human health are unlikely when fenvalerate is applied as recommended