What is the main purpose of the tolerance program related to pesticides?

The main purpose of the tolerance program related to pesticides is to ensure that consumers are not exposed to unsafe pesticide residue levels. The tolerance program establishes maximum residue levels (MRLs) for pesticides on food products, which are scientifically assessed to be safe for human consumption. By setting these limits, regulatory agencies aim to protect public health and safety, ensuring that the consumption of food treated with pesticides does not pose a risk to consumers.

This program is vital in maintaining food safety standards and provides consumers with confidence that the foods they purchase are safe and free from harmful levels of pesticide residues. The other options do not align with the primary goal of the tolerance program; for instance, regulating production does not directly address consumer safety, promoting sales is not a primary goal of regulatory frameworks, and discouraging usage goes against the pragmatic approach established in agricultural practices, which emphasizes safe use rather than outright discouragement.