"Maker of Methyl Iodide Scraps Controversial Pesticide"

"The manufacturer of methyl iodide is pulling the controversial pesticide from the U.S. market."



"Late Tuesday, representatives of Tokyo-based Arysta LifeScience confirmed the 'immediate suspension of product sales for all formulations of the fumigant MIDAS in the United States.' The company said its decision was based on 'an internal review of the fumigant and based on its economic viability in the U.S. marketplace,' according to Amy Yoder, head of Arysta LifeScience North American business unit.

Prior to Arysta's confirmation, Assemblyman Luis Alejo said Arysta 'absolutely' does plan to end sales of the fumigant, marketed under the name Midas, not only in this state but across the nation. That, he said, could send 'shock waves' across the state's agricultural fields and particularly through the strawberry industry, which is losing its primary fumigant, methyl bromide, under an international treaty."

Donna Jones reports for the Santa Cruz Sentinel March 20, 2012.

Source: Santa Cruz Sentinel, 03/21/2012