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Accidental spraying of dandelion killer on garden plants #879212

Asked July 29, 2024, 10:44 AM EDT

About a month ago some container vegetables were accidentally sprayed with a dandelion weed killer, the brand is Captain Jacks by Bonide. They were lightly sprayed as the person thought they were using a rabbit & deer repellent and was trying to lightly spray mostly around the area. Some did get on the plants but not a lot, it ended up a few leaves were affected yellowed, but otherwise the plants appear fine. Plants were potatoes, tomatoes, peppers and green beans. None were fruiting or very big at the time. Unfortunately we did not know in enough time to wash the spray off. The plants are beginning to flower and set fruit, is it safe to eat these or should they just be tossed? The plants look very healthy but I don't know what to do or how this would affect vegetables. I have done some looking online and it talks about farmers spraying crops with herbicides/pesticides but I don't know if this is at specific times, after the fruit is more advanced?

Chisago County Minnesota

Expert Response

Hi Laura,

If this was Captain Jack's Deadweed Brew, here's the label:

https://files.plytix.com/api/v1.1/file/public_files/pim/private/assets/43/37/8d/5e/5e8d3743202d9eba64d3af60/texts/37/37/4e/60/604e37370aeee2afba8f009f/l2602.pdf

This is from the EPA's 2022 evaluation of the chemicals used in this product. It indicates the two chemicals in the product you used (capric and caprylic acids) are naturally occuring:

"Capric Acid, Caprylic Acid, and Pelargonic Acid

The database of submitted toxicity studies and published literature is sufficient to assess the uses of capric acid, caprylic acid, and pelargonic acid. ..... A data waiver for the subchronic inhalation toxicity data requirement was originally granted by the Agency. The waivers were based on the following: 1) humans have long been exposed to pelargonic, capric, and caprylic acids in the diet. They occur naturally in many plants and animal products and are approved for use as direct food additives by the FDA under 21 CFR 172.860; 2) humans are already exposed dermally to the substances as they are used in a variety of personal care products, such as make-up, shampoos and conditioners, lotions, and cleansers; 3) no adverse effects have been reported from exposure to these substances; 4) appropriate personal protective
equipment (PPE) requirements on the label will mitigate exposure to applicators/handlers; and 5) the available toxicity data indicate no adverse effects with the exception of being skin and eye irritants....

"New analyses to determine human health risks are not needed to support the
registration review for pelargonic, capric, and caprylic acids. Based on minimal hazard as indicated in guideline studies and/or minimal exposure, there are no dietary, residential, or occupational risks of concerns for humans. As noted above, pelargonic acid is of low oral (Toxicity Category IV), dermal and inhalation toxicity (Toxicity Category III)."

I hope this answers your question. Thanks.

MJ Replied July 29, 2024, 10:54 PM EDT
The one I have is Captain Jacks Lawnweed Brew (not concentrate) made from iron & other ingredients.

Laura

On Mon, Jul 29, 2024 at 9:54 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied July 31, 2024, 12:13 AM EDT

Your vegetables should be fine.

MJ Replied July 31, 2024, 8:01 AM EDT

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