Strawberries and Worker Safety
Topics: Environment, Health, Radio
Methyl bromide – a powerful fumigant used by strawberry growers to sterilize the soil before plants go in – was found to harm the Earth's ozone layer. Strawberry farmers have been clamoring for a replacement, and they may get their wish if the state approves a chemical called methyl iodide. But some state scientists say it could cause cancer and miscarriages in farm workers and nearby communities.
Additional Links
- EPA Pesticide Fact Sheet: Methyl Iodide
- Pesticide Action Network
- Reporter's Notes: Strawberries and Worker Safety


