Conventional farming makes use of several pesticides and herbicides to help improve crop yield, many of which can prove harmful to humans. One type of pesticide used in agriculture is iron phosphate. While iron phosphate can prove less dangerous than some other pesticide options, it still can cause toxicity in humans.
Types of Iron Phosphate
There are two types of iron phosphate: iron(II) phosphate and iron(III) phosphate. The difference is the number of electrons -- small particles with a negative electric charge -- surrounding each iron ion. The number of electrons helps determine how iron interacts with phosphate, leading to differences in the molecular structure of iron(II) phosphate and iron(III) phosphate. Iron(II) phosphate, also called ferrous phosphate, contains three iron ions and two phosphate ions, whereas iron(III) phosphate, also called ferric phosphate, contains one iron and one phosphate ion. Both forms of iron phosphate are toxic to humans.
Uses of Iron Phosphate
Both types of iron phosphate are used as pesticides in plants. The chemicals can attract slugs, so gardeners and farmers can help steer slugs away from their gardens and crops. Due to their uses in agriculture, you might get exposed to iron phosphate by consuming poorly washed vegetables, or come into contact with the chemicals when gardening. Some types of iron phosphate exposure pose a moderate health risk, while others might cause only mild irritation.
Iron(II) Phosphate Toxicity
Iron(II) phosphate can have a mild toxic effect on humans. Skin or eye exposure to iron(II) phosphate powder can cause irritation, so those who have accidental exposure to the chemical should flush their skin thoroughly with water, or wash the affected eye in water for at least 15 minutes. When inhaled, iron(II) phosphate can irritate your airways and lungs, potentially leading to breathing difficulties. If you accidentally breathe in iron(ii) phosphate, move into fresh air or a well-ventilated room and seek medical attention. In addition, ingestion of iron(II) phosphate requires medical attention, and you should not purposely try to vomit after consumption.
Iron(III) Phosphate Toxicity
Iron(III) phosphate also can prove toxic to a number of tissues, leading to damaging irritation. Accidental inhalation, ingestion or eye exposure to iron(III) phosphate are most harmful, since the chemical can irritate your eyes and airways. Washing your eyes in water for 15 minutes can help flush away the chemical, while moving to a well-ventilated area can help restore normal breathing. Eye exposure, inhalation and ingestion of iron(III) phosphate all require medical attention. Accidental skin exposure to iron(III) phosphate also proves irritating, and thoroughly washing your skin with water can prevent further irritation.
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