True or False: Livestock poisoned with organophosphate and carbamate insecticides should not be consumed.

• A. False
• B. True
• C. Not enough information
• D. Depends on species

Answer: (A)

The key idea is that food safety for meat from animals exposed to pesticides depends on residue levels at the time of slaughter, not a blanket prohibition. Organophosphate and carbamate insecticides can cause poisoning, but regulatory withdrawal times and residue testing exist to ensure edible tissues fall below safe limits before meat enters the food supply. If an animal has been treated and the appropriate withholding period has passed—with residues below established maximum limits and no ongoing clinical poisoning—the meat can be considered safe for consumption. Conversely, if residues are above limits or there is active poisoning, it should not be consumed. Therefore, stating that such livestock should never be eaten is too absolute; safety depends on residue data and regulatory guidelines, not a universal rule.