EPA approves new pesticide despite scientists' concerns

EPA approves new pesticide despite scientists' concerns

Chemists say methyl iodide, a neurotoxin that can mutate DNA, has 'serious potential for accidents.' But federal officials say safeguards in place are sufficient to protect farm workers and field-adjacent neighborhoods.

By Marla Cone, Los Angeles Times Staff Writer October 6, 2007

Despite the protests of more than 50 scientists, including five Nobel laureates in chemistry, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency on Friday approved use of a new, highly toxic fumigant, mainly for strawberry fields.The new pesticide, methyl iodide, is designed for growers, mainly in California and Florida, who need to replace methyl bromide, which has been banned under an international treaty because it damages the Earth's ozone layer.

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