Which agency is responsible for the registration of pesticide products in the United States?

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is the authority responsible for the registration of pesticide products in the United States. This agency oversees the evaluation and approval of pesticides to ensure they meet the safety and efficacy standards set forth in the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA). By conducting rigorous assessments of potential health risks and environmental impacts, the EPA determines whether a pesticide can be marketed and used in the U.S.

The registration process involves scientific evaluations of data submitted by pesticide manufacturers, including studies on the product’s effects on human health, wildlife, and the environment. Only after thorough review and compliance with safety regulations can a pesticide be legally sold or used.

In contrast, other agencies listed in the options have different roles. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) focuses on agricultural policies and research but does not handle pesticide registration. The Centrally for Environmental Protection (CEP) is not an actual agency in the context of U.S. pesticide regulation. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) oversees food safety and medication approval but does not regulate pesticides directly. Thus, the EPA is the definitive agency concerning pesticide product registration, underlining its critical role in pest management and environmental protection.