Can a harvested crop contain more than the set tolerance of a pesticide and still be legally sold?

A harvested crop cannot legally be sold if it contains more than the established tolerance levels for a pesticide. Tolerance levels are regulatory limits set to ensure food safety and protect consumers from harmful pesticide residues. When a crop exceeds these limits, it can pose health risks, and regulatory bodies, such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), have strict guidelines to prevent such products from entering the market.

Selling a crop with pesticide levels above the tolerance is not just a violation of regulations; it undermines consumer trust and public health standards. This requirement helps maintain the integrity of the food supply and ensures that products reaching consumers are safe for consumption.

The incorrect options suggest scenarios where a crop might still be allowed for sale despite exceeding pesticide tolerance, but these do not align with established food safety regulations, which prioritize consumer safety above revenue from potentially hazardous products.