Is Tribufos Safe During Pregnancy?
The facts: Tribufos 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 Tribufos on any product's label so you can decide with your provider. Commonly found in: cotton.
TL;DR: Tribufos is banned in the EU and allowed in the US. Here's what to know if you're pregnant.
Tribufos: regulatory status at a glance
| EU status | Banned |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level (regulatory) | high |
| Where it shows up | cotton |
What is Tribufos?
Tribufos (CAS 78-48-8) is a defoliant used in industrial agriculture.
Why is Tribufos used in food?
It is applied as a cotton harvest defoliant.
What regulators have flagged about Tribufos
EU non-approval over neurotoxicity and worker exposure.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Tribufos 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 Tribufos →
Audited products that don't contain Tribufos.
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Tribufos and pregnancy: common questions
Is Tribufos banned anywhere?
Yes. Tribufos is banned in European Union. The FDA still allows it in the US.
Should I avoid Tribufos 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 Tribufos?
Commonly found in cotton. Scan any product's barcode to check its label for Tribufos.
What can I use instead of Tribufos?
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 Tribufos 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.