Alachlor
CAS Number: 15972-60-8
Sources of exposure:
Historical agricultural herbicide applications, corn and soybean fields, contaminated groundwater, drinking water, and agricultural runoff
Description:
Alachlor is a chloroacetanilide herbicide historically used to control annual grasses and certain broadleaf weeds in agricultural crops. It inhibits the synthesis of very-long-chain fatty acids in susceptible plants. Although its use has been discontinued or restricted in many jurisdictions, exposure may occur through historical contamination of soil and water.
Health concerns:
Cancer
Known or suspected to increase cancer risk in humans.
Organ System Toxicity
May cause organ damage and disease.
Immunotoxicity & Allergens
May impact immune system function or cause allergic reactions.
Irritant
May cause skin, eye, or respiratory irritation.
Ecotoxicity
May be toxic to ecosystems and wildlife.
Banned/restricted lists:
- California Proposition 65 - OEHHA - cancer
- EU Cosmetics Regulation Annex II - Prohibited
- Rotterdam Convention - Annex III - Prior Informed Consent (PIC) - Pesticide
References
- US Environmental Protection Agency. Cheminformatics Modules, Computational Toxicology and Exposure Informatics (CompTox). California Department of Public Health. California Safe Cosmetics Reportable Ingredients List.