According to WHO standards, the pesticide content (Lindane or DDT) in drinking water should not exceed

The correct answer is 2 μgL-1

There are more than 1000 pesticides used around the world to ensure food is not damaged or destroyed by pests. Each pesticide has different properties and toxicological effects. Many of the older, cheaper (off-patent) pesticides, such as dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) and lindane, can remain for years in soil and water. 

Key Points

• DDT:
  • It refers to p,p'-DDT, or p,p'-dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane
  • It is a non-systemic contact insecticide with a broad spectrum of activity
  • DDT and its metabolites are readily adsorbed onto sediments and soils, which can act both as sinks and as long-term sources of exposure.
  • Because of its strong tendency to be adsorbed onto surfaces, most DDT that enters the water is and remains firmly attached to soil particles
  • According to WHO standards, the pesticide content (Lindane or DDT) in drinking water should not exceed 2 μgL-1
  • DDT exposure effects:
    • DDT is known to act as an endocrine disruptor.
    • Therefore, exposure to this compound can result in interference with the endocrine system. This compound is also suspected to be a carcinogen to human beings. 
    • The bioaccumulation of DDT has caused eggshell thinning and population declines in multiple North American and European bird of prey species.