I can't believe that our government, this time the state of California, is still so ambivalent about the health and welfare of their residents, and especially children. Last year, California approved the use of methyl iodide for agricultural use on strawberries.
Methyl iodide is a potent carcinogen and neurotoxin that is already banned in New York and Washington. Known as “one of the most toxic chemicals on earth”, it is a proven cancer causing agent as well as an endocrine disruptor and powerful neurotoxin. It's use on strawberries, one of America’s favorite fruits, will surely endanger our children and others who eat them and the farm workers who harvest them. Local residents near where the spraying is done will also suffer.
More than 50 scientists criticized the 2007 approval stating that the review process was hidden from the public and the focus of the research was too limited. There is little left to debate on the safety and necessity for this chemical use. [1]
On April 21, 2011, Time magazine revealed 3 different studies that demonstrate that pregnant mothers exposed to agricultural pesticides give birth to children with lower IQ's. [2]
The EPA is asking for comments from the American public and the deadline is April 30th. They need to hear from you today. Please copy the link below and paste into your browser window to read more and help to stop the use of this chemical.
http://action.fooddemocracynow.org/sign/no_toxic_strawberries/?akid=309.286762.8V65pn&rd=1&t=6
Sources:
1. "Letter to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency from 50 Top U.S. Scientists Asking EPA to Ban Methyl Iodide", September 24, 2007.
2.
"Exposure to pesticides in pregnancy can lover children's IQ", Time Magazine, April 21, 2010.
http://action.
No comments:
Post a Comment