What is the term for the amount of pesticide found in a crop at harvest?

The term that describes the amount of pesticide found in a crop at harvest is residue. This refers specifically to the pesticide residues that remain on or in the crops after application and prior to consumption. Measuring pesticide residues is critical as it helps to assess compliance with safety regulations and ensures that the levels are within acceptable limits for human health and environmental safety.

Residue is significant from both a regulatory and consumer safety standpoint. Regulatory agencies establish Maximum Residue Levels (MRLs) for various pesticides on specific crops, aimed at protecting consumers from potentially harmful effects that could result from pesticide exposure. These residues can vary based on factors such as the type of pesticide used, the application method, environmental conditions, and duration before harvest.

The other terms have distinct meanings: contamination generally refers to the presence of undesired substances or pollutants, leftover implies remaining materials without context regarding safety or regulations, and excess often denotes amounts beyond recommended or safe levels, which does not specifically correspond to the concept of residue. Understanding the term residue is essential for those involved in agricultural practices to ensure food safety and compliance with regulations.