Pesticide Data Program (PDP)

What is it?

The Pesticide Data Program (PDP) is a national pesticide residue database program.  Through cooperation with State agriculture departments and other Federal agencies, PDP manages the collection, analysis, data entry, and reporting of pesticide residues on agricultural commodities in the U.S. food supply, with an emphasis on those commodities highly consumed by infants and children. 

Objectives

PDP data are used by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Food and Drug Administration, the USDA Economic Research Service and Foreign Agricultural Service, as well as groups within the private sector.  EPA uses PDP data to prepare realistic pesticide dietary exposure assessments as part of its ongoing effort to implement the 1996 Food Quality Protection Act.  The Government and agricultural community also use PDP data to examine pesticide practices and U.S. trade.  PDP data have been helpful in identifying crops where alternative pest management practices are needed.  PDP data are also useful in promoting export of U.S. commodities in a competitive global market and addressing food safety issues.

Find out more:

• Federal PDP contacts
• State PDP participant contacts
• Quick facts about PDP
• Program SOPs