Dinitro-Ortho-Cresol

An evaluation of the risks to human health and the environment posed by exposure to dinitro-ortho-cresol, a chemical used for over a century as an avaricide, larvicide and ovicide to control the dormant forms of many insects in orchards.

The chemical is also sprayed on potatoes to prevent virus and disease contamination of the tubers.

Although the chemical's use as a pesticide has been banned in many countries, significant volumes of obsolete stocks are still found in several parts of the world, especially in developing countries.

The most extensive part of the report evaluates the results of toxicity studies in laboratory mammals and "in vitro" test systems.

The report concludes that, when used according to registered recommendations, and when measures for personal protection are followed, exposure to dinitro-ortho-cresol is reduced to levels that do not cause systemic toxicity.