Introduction

The Popcorn Board developed this Agri-Chemical Handbook to help everyone in the popcorn industry remain informed about the status of pesticide products that are registered for use on popcorn or in popcorn storage facilities. (“Pesticide” includes insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, and growth regulators.)

The proper use of pesticides is of critical importance to the popcorn industry. The Popcorn Board is committed to ensuring that popcorn remains safe and healthful and retains the full confidence of consumers. To that end this Handbook not only lists agri-chemicals registered for use on popcorn or in storage facilities, but also indicates where special use restrictions apply, or if a chemical is under special review by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

This Handbook is not a substitute for the labeling of a pesticide; the labeling should be consulted for particular limitations on use, instructions on how the product should be applied, warnings and precautions, and the like.

Likewise, the fact that a pesticide appears in this Handbook does not necessarily mean that the pesticide is approved for use on popcorn in all situations or all areas of the US. Other limitations may appear on the label (e.g., “for use only in Illinois and Indiana”) or be imposed by state regulations. Readers also should be aware that some fumigants and insecticides are for use only on empty storage areas or as preplant soil fumigants and that most fungicides are registered for use as a seed treatment only. Growers should also check labels for any rotational restrictions limiting how soon popcorn can be planted following the application of a herbicide.

Also included (as Appendix IV) is a model “grower’s permanent record of chemical pesticide application.” We strongly recommend that every grower maintain an accurate record of all pesticides used.

For some pesticides, the US Environmental Protection Administration (EPA) and most foreign governments have established Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) specifying limits on the residues of these pesticides permitted in products placed on the market. Exporters should be aware that foreign MRLs are not always the same as US EPA MRLs. Codex limits, developed by the World Health Organization, are used by many importing countries, but there are important exceptions, including several major foreign markets. Exporting firms should carefully review the USDA International MRL Database, www.mrldatabase.com and check with their overseas marketers to be certain they are aware of the standards applicable in these markets. See Appendix II.