Rapid increase in population has undoubtedly put enormous pressure on the food production system across the globe. However, to meet this ever increasing food demand and for controlling the pests and vectors, there has been extensive usage of chemicals especially pesticides. Although, pesticides finds an important place in intensive agriculture for enhancing the crop yield and storage; and in animal husbandry for preventing pest infestations but their unregulated and indiscriminate use is a serious health concern. Unfortunately, the rampant use of pesticides poses a potential health risks to humans, animals, and environment as well as to non-target species accruing to biodiversity loss, emergence of resistant pests and other ecological imbalances. Therefore, various steps has been taken to curb their haphazard use and many governments are now imposing restrictions on their usage. But, numerous formulations are still in use, both in agricultural and domestic settings; thereby leading to contamination of natural resources and risks for future generations. The present review focuses on various aspects of pesticides usage in agricultural and animal husbandry practices, their impact on health and the possible alternatives to their use.

Keywords: Pesticides; Animal feed; Health impacts; Environmental health; Consumption pattern.