Problems in the Dietary Exposure Assessment of Pesticide Residues

식품중 잔류농약에 의한 인체피폭 평가에서의 문제점

The demand of safety assessment for pesticide residues in foods is growing in Korea. In order to assess the actual dietary exposure toward pesticide residues, the problems in utilization of pesticide residue data were reviewed and optimization of food factors applicable to Korean population was conducted. The problems and current status in setting pesticide residue tolerance-domestic and foreign-in foods were also argued. The conclusion is summarized as follows: (1) Anticipated residue estimates(ARE) calculated from field trial residue data, the percentage of crop treated, and the effects of cooking or processing should be utilized for dietary exposure assessment in a real sense. (2) Average daily intake of total foods per person in Korea was 1,104g in 1970's and 1,240g in 1980's. Much variation was observed between the two decades by food commodities. (3) Pesticide residue tolerances in Korea have been established at relatively lower levels in comparison with FAO/WHO or western countries. More extensive studies and data accumulation as related to tolerance setting are called for in future for the sake of health protection and smooth interstate trade.