Analysis

Synthetic and natural agricultural chemicals include herbicides, insecticides, and fungicides. They are used by all farmers, organic and conventional, and have led to affordable food in markets around the world. Almost any farm chemical can be harmful if the amount applied is high enough — the “dose makes the poison”. What level of exposure poses a genuine risk to humans and the environment? How can the public and the press assess the scientific credibility of corporate and environmental group campaign claims? We’ve assembled a growing collection of articles and commentaries to help sort science from misinformation.