The EPA Has Taken Emergency Action to Ban Dangerous Weedkiller Dacthal: Know the Risks and How to Stay Safe

Pesticides are a common part of modern agriculture, used to protect crops from pests and weeds. However, their widespread use can pose serious health risks.

In a landmark public health decision, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued an emergency order to immediately suspend all uses of the pesticide Dacthal (DCPA) due to its serious health risks, particularly to pregnant women and unborn babies. This move marks the first time in nearly 40 years that the EPA has exercised such emergency authority to prevent an imminent hazard.

What are the health risks of the weedkiller ban?

The ban comes from growing evidence that DCPA poses significant risks to human health, particularly to unborn babies and pregnant women. Studies have shown that exposure to DCPA can lead to irreversible damage in fetuses, including low birth weight, impaired brain development and decreased motor skills. “EPA estimates that some pregnant individuals handling DCPA products could be subjected to exposures four to 20 times greater than what EPA has estimated is safe for unborn babies,” the agency said in a statement issued on August 6.

Additionally, the agency has identified and assessed DCPA’s role in thyroid disruption, increased cancer risk and developmental issues in children. In May 2023, the EPA released an assessment on “the risks of occupational and residential exposure to products containing DCPA. According to the statement, “the assessment found health risks associated with DCPA use and application, even when personal protective equipment and engineering controls are used.”

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History of DCPA pesticides

Dimethyl tetrachloroterephthalate, also known as DCPA, was first introduced in the late 1950s as a weed control agent in both agricultural and non-agricultural settings. Initially, it proved effective in managing weeds in crops like broccoli, Brussels sprouts and onions. Over time, however, concerns about its environmental persistence and potential health risks began to surface. Despite these concerns, DCPA continued to be widely used due to its efficacy and lack of immediate regulatory action.

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Background leading to the weedkiller ban

DCPA has long been held under scrutiny. The pesticide can persist in the soil, leading to prolonged contamination of crops. In 2013, the EPA requested extensive data from AMVAC Chemical Corporation, DCPA's sole manufacturer, to assess the pesticide's safety. However, AMVAC failed to provide the necessary information within the allotted time. This prompted the EPA to issue a Notice of Intent to Suspend in 2022.

What does the weedkiller ban mean for me?

If you have been using DCPA on your property, it is crucial to stop its use immediately and seek safer alternatives. For those who might have been exposed to this pesticide, consult a healthcare professional. This is especially advisable if you experience symptoms such as hormonal imbalances or unexplained health changes.

Consumers should be aware that many vegetables previously contained high levels of DCPA residue. However, the ban should reduce these risks moving forward. Regularly washing fruits and vegetables and opting for organic produce can further minimize exposure to residual pesticides.

This suspension underscores the EPA's commitment to protecting farmworkers and vulnerable populations from hazardous chemicals. As the agency begins the cancellation process for DCPA, it will work closely with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to identify safer alternatives for growers.

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