What is the maximum safe amount of pesticide allowed on a crop referred to as?

The term that refers to the maximum safe amount of pesticide allowed on a crop is "tolerance." This is established by regulatory agencies to ensure that pesticide levels remain within safe limits to protect human health and the environment. Tolerances are set based on scientific studies to determine what level of pesticide residue is considered acceptable for safe consumption.

Incomplete or inappropriate use of these terms can lead to confusion; for example, while "residue" pertains to the trace amounts of pesticide remaining on or in crops after application, it does not define the maximum allowable level. "Deposit" describes the amount of pesticide remaining on a surface after application but does not indicate safety thresholds. "Contamination" implies an unwanted presence of pesticides, which usually means levels are exceeding permissible thresholds, leading to potential risks. Therefore, "tolerance" is the accurate term reflecting permissible pesticide levels on crops, ensuring safety for consumers.