Which federal entity is charged with evaluating pesticide safety?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is the federal entity responsible for evaluating pesticide safety. The EPA ensures that pesticides meet safety standards to protect human health and the environment before they can be registered for use in the United States. This involves a rigorous assessment process that examines the potential risks associated with pesticide exposure for humans, animals, and non-target plants, as well as their impact on water quality and ecosystems.

In addition to evaluating the safety of pesticides, the EPA also monitors their use and compliance with safety regulations, making it a crucial authority in managing pesticide-related risks. This focus on safety evaluation is essential for maintaining a balance between agricultural needs and public health concerns.

The other options, while related to food safety and public health in various capacities, do not have the specific mandate to evaluate pesticide safety like the EPA does. The US Department of Agriculture primarily oversees farming practices and agricultural policies, the Food and Drug Administration focuses on food product safety and pharmaceuticals, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is more concerned with public health and disease prevention rather than the safety of pesticides specifically.