Chlorpyrifos is an organophosphate insecticide previously used extensively on a wide range of crops.  The neurotoxic effects of the compound especially in infants and children have led to withdrawal of the product in the E.U. and other nations.  California banned application of chlorpyrifos effective 2020. 

In response to a ruling by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 8^th Circuit, the Environmental Protection Agency has taken action to further restrict the compound in the U.S.  The EPA has published a notice in the Federal Register reinstating tolerances for residues.  Chlorpyrifos will only be used on eleven designated crops including alfalfa, apples, asparagus, citrus, cotton, peach, sugar beets and wheat but still permits extensive use of the compound. The EPA is evaluating responses to a request for comments and is preparing a human health risk assessment with an amended proposed interim registration in 2026.

Given the neurotoxicity of chlorpyrifos, use should be restricted to nonfood crops. Strict regulations should be introduced and enforced regarding handling and applying the product in agriculture.