Is Endosulfan Safe During Pregnancy?
The facts: Endosulfan is banned in 1 country/region (including European Union), though the FDA still allows it in the US. We can't tell you whether it's safe for your pregnancy — that's a conversation for your OB-GYN or midwife. What we can do is show you the regulatory facts and flag Endosulfan on any product's label so you can decide with your provider. Commonly found in: cotton, tea, coffee.
TL;DR: Endosulfan is banned in the EU and allowed in the US. Here's what to know if you're pregnant.
Endosulfan: regulatory status at a glance
| EU status | Banned |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level (regulatory) | high |
| Where it shows up | cotton, tea, coffee |
What is Endosulfan?
Endosulfan (CAS 115-29-7) is a insecticide used in industrial agriculture.
Why is Endosulfan used in food?
It is applied as a organochlorine insecticide.
What regulators have flagged about Endosulfan
Persistent organic pollutant; banned in the EU and globally under the Stockholm Convention.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Endosulfan with citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice and is not pregnancy-specific medical guidance. Consult your OB-GYN or midwife for decisions about your pregnancy.
Pregnancy-conscious swaps free from Endosulfan →
Audited products that don't contain Endosulfan.
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Endosulfan and pregnancy: common questions
Is Endosulfan banned anywhere?
Yes. Endosulfan is banned in European Union. The FDA still allows it in the US.
Should I avoid Endosulfan during pregnancy?
That's a decision for you and your OB-GYN or midwife — we don't give medical advice. What we can tell you is the regulatory status above. Many people choose to limit additives during pregnancy out of caution; bring this page and its sources to your next appointment.
What foods contain Endosulfan?
Commonly found in cotton, tea, coffee. Scan any product's barcode to check its label for Endosulfan.
What can I use instead of Endosulfan?
Choose USDA-certified-organic produce, buy from EU-importing brands, and wash and peel conventional produce. BannedPantry flags products and crops associated with high-residue pesticides. See the pregnancy-conscious swaps below.
Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains Endosulfan or other ingredients restricted overseas.
Scan a product free →Other ingredients to check during pregnancy
Sources
- 85 pesticides outlawed elsewhere still used in the US — Center for Biological Diversity
- Residues of pesticides banned in the EU in imported food — Veblen Institute
- EPA Pesticide Registration — U.S. EPA
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.