A Review on the Impact of Chemicals Used in Crops on Human Health

Abstract

Modern crop production relies on a wide array of chemicals—including pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, plant growth regulators, and post-harvest treatments—to secure yields and reduce losses. While these inputs contribute to food security, accumulating evidence links both occupational and dietary exposures to a spectrum of human health outcomes. Documented risks range from acute poisonings and irritant effects to chronic neurobehavioral changes, endocrine disruption, reproductive toxicity, carcinogenicity, cardiometabolic disease, and perturbed gut microbiomes. Risk varies with compound class, formulation, dose, timing, and life stage, and is modified by regulatory controls, residues at consumption, and mitigation practices across the farm-to-fork chain. This review synthesizes epidemiological, toxicological, and risk-assessment evidence; highlights vulnerable populations; summarizes regulatory approaches (ADI, ARfD, MRLs); and identifies practical risk-reduction strategies such as integrated pest management (IPM), safer formulations, improved application practices, and consumer-level decontamination. We conclude with research and policy priorities to align agricultural productivity with human health protection.