On Mon, 22 Mar 2004 22:08:16 -0800, profpam wrote in
Message-Id: :

Although I wonder whether growth
hormones used on edibles can get into one's system and would be reluctant to
apply it to fruits and vegetables,

Here's some information about the safety issue with Gibberellic Acid:

http://www.jlhudsonseeds.net/GibberellicAcid.htm#SAFETY
SAFETY

GA-3 is a natural organic compound, and its use is approved by
most organic certification agencies.

GA-3 is considered 'relatively non-toxic'. According to the MSDS
(Material Safety Data Sheet), the LD50 (lethal dose 50) or the
dose which kills 50% of the test animals, is 1000 to 25,000
milligrams per kilogram of body weight in mice, dogs and rats.
Applied to humans, this would mean a 75 kilogram (165 pound)
person could be killed by consuming between 75 and 1875 grams (2.6
ounces to about 4 pounds) of the 90% GA-3 powder. "In reproductive
studies in rats, no maternal or fetal toxicity, or other adverse
effects to the fetus were noted following large doses
(1000mg/kg/day) of gibberellic acid." -MSDS. The powder may cause
eye irritation; in case of contact, flush with plenty of water.
Reporting this information does not imply our endorsement of
animal testing!

The relative non-toxicity of GA-3 and its use on food crops should
not encourage careless handling - always keep out of reach of
children, avoid contact with skin, eyes and clothing, wash hands
after using, or use rubber gloves. Do not use on food crops or for
any other purpose than seed germination research. Properly dispose
of toweling or filter papers after use, thoroughly wash
implements, then rinse with vinegar, then rinse again. Do not
contaminate soil - GA-3 is highly persistent and bioactive and may
remain in soil for some months and affect plant growth. A healthy
organic soil with strong microbial growth will probably break it
down fastest. Plants vary widely in their sensitivity to GA-3.
Remember that while GA-3 is sprayed on table grapes at a rate of 1
milligram per 1.7 square feet (26 grams per acre), that same
milligram could cause cone formation on 500,000 Cupressus shoots.
Remember that while GA-3 is naturally present in common foods like
corn, it is only in billionth of a gram quantities.

Obey all local, state and federal laws regarding use or disposal
of this product!

We accept no liability for use of this product or information!
Have a nice day!