Describe the term "pesticide tolerance."

Pesticide tolerance refers to the maximum allowable level of pesticide residues that can legally remain on food and feed products or in the environment. This concept is crucial for ensuring food safety, as it sets limits on the amount of pesticide that can be present in agricultural products, thereby protecting consumers from potential harmful effects of pesticide exposure. The establishment of these tolerance levels is based on scientific evaluations that consider the potential health risks associated with pesticide residues, including acceptable daily intake levels and long-term exposure. Meeting these tolerance levels is essential for compliance with agricultural regulations, promoting public health, and maintaining consumer confidence in food safety.