Aldicarb food poisonings in California, 1985-1988: toxicity estimates for humans

Within the last three years there have been several reported outbreaks of food poisoning from melons or cucumbers related to the use of an insecticide, aldicarb (tradename Temik, produced by Union Carbide). The insecticide works by interfering with the synthesis of acetyl cholinesterase, an enzyme required for metabolizing acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter substance. The poisoning is reversible, but causes the following symptoms: diarrhea, vomiting, tearing, salivation, constriction of the pupil (miosis), and convulsion. In extreme situations, poisoning could lead to death. Before the use of aldicarb, a group of 12 male volunteers were used to establish safe levels. Not only is aldicarb itself poisonous, but two specific break-down products are also biologically active, aldicarb sulfoxide (ASO) and aldicarb sulfone (AS). While ASO has roughly the same toxic powers as aldicarb, AS is 27-times less toxic. The aldicarb group of insecticides are classified as systemic because they are incorporated into all parts of plants including the roots, stems, leaves, and fruit. Outbreak one occurred in 1978 and involved cucumbers; outbreak two occurred in 1985 from contaminated watermelons; outbreak three, in 1987, also involved watermelons; outbreak four occurred the following year and was traced to contamination of hydroponically grown English cucumbers. This study examines individual known cases of aldicarb poisoning and includes a description of symptoms, and when available, an analysis of samples of contaminated foodstuffs. Epidemiologic investigation indicates that the present standards for aldicarb poisoning are too high. It is of particular interest that incidents of aldicarb poisoning involve members of the cucurbitaceae family of plants which include cucumbers, melons, squash, and pumpkins. Questions remain regarding the toxicity of aldicarb, the possibility that unknown metabolites of aldicarb may be involved, and the exact dose of these compounds necessary to induce gastrointestinal difficulties. Until these and other questions concerning this family of insecticides are better known, it is prudent for health departments to monitor for outbreaks of aldicarb poisoning. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Aldicarb Food Poisonings in California, 1985-1988: Toxicity Estimates for Humans DURING THE FAST 3 y, California has experienced several outbreaks of foodborne poisoning with aldicarb sulfoxide (ASO), a metabolite of [...]