Virginia Commercial Pesticide Applicators CORE Exam

Under what condition may a pesticide be labeled "minimum risk"?

1. If it contains no active ingredients

2. If all ingredients are on an EPA approved list

3. If it is a trade name product

4. If it is produced by a specific manufacturer

The correct answer is: If all ingredients are on an EPA approved list

A pesticide can be labeled "minimum risk" when it contains only active and inert ingredients that are all on the EPA's approved list. This labeling signifies that the product poses a lower risk to human health and the environment compared to other pesticides. The EPA closely regulates these substances, ensuring that they meet specific criteria for safety and efficacy. In this context, the presence of only those ingredients that are deemed acceptable implies compliance with established safety standards, which is a key factor in classifying a product as "minimum risk." This designation can also facilitate easier access to the market for products that are less hazardous. The other options do not align with the criteria for minimum risk classification. A product containing no active ingredients would not function as a pesticide, while the specificity of a trade name or the identity of the manufacturer is irrelevant to the risk assessment of the ingredients themselves.