Learn Glossary pesticide residue

Hexachlorocyclohexane

Level 5High concernIn Winter's Dictionary

Hexachlorocyclohexane is a pesticide residue — Pesticide used on fruit/vegetable crops

Also: HCH gamma, Lindane

What it does

Pesticide used on fruit/vegetable crops

Where you'll see it

Hasn't been made in US since 1977; may be in older house sprays, dog dips

What the research says

Workers exposed showed lung irritation, heart disorders, blood disorders, headache, convulsions, changes in sex hormones. Large amounts caused death.

Regulatory status

  • Notes: EU priority hazardous; banned for general use

Sources

  • A Consumer's Dictionary of Food Additives (Winter): humans and animals exposed to large amounts of HCH gamma died