LOS ANGELES – For the first time in about 40 years, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has used its emergency powers to stop the sale of the weed killer DCPA, or Dacthal.

The reason for this measure was significant health concerns about the pesticide’s potential to harm fetal development, including causing impaired brain development and low birth weight.

Why did the EPA stop selling DCPA?

The EPA decided to stop selling DCPA after assessing the risks and finding that it could cause irreversible harm to fetuses, including impaired brain development and low birth weight.

The agency failed to obtain crucial health data from the pesticide manufacturer in a timely manner and concluded that continued sale of the pesticide was no longer safe.

“If this happens, pregnant women who may never know they were exposed to the gas could give birth to babies who suffer permanent, lifelong health problems,” said Michal Freedhoff, deputy director of the EPA’s Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention.

What is DCPA and how is it used?

DCPA, also known as Dacthal, is a pesticide used primarily on crops such as broccoli, cabbage, and other vegetables. In 2023, the EPA evaluated the pesticide and concluded that it was dangerous even when workers wore personal protective equipment.

The pesticide’s manufacturer, AMVAC Chemical Corp., had recommended avoiding treated fields for 12 hours. However, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) had found that dangerous levels of DCPA could persist for over 25 days.

What actions has the EPA taken?

The EPA issued an emergency order to stop the sale of DCPA because the standard review process would take too long and put people at risk.

This emergency measure underscores the severity of the potential health risks posed by the pesticide. Although the manufacturer had proposed new safety protocols, including longer withdrawal times and handling limits, the EPA deemed these measures inadequate.