The majority of the approximately 800.000 kg (1.8 million pounds) of dimethoate used annually in the U.S. is accounted for by applications on alfalfa, wheat, cotton, and corn crops.

In 2005, dimethoate usage was cancelled in the U.S. for use on apples, broccoli raab, cabbage, collards, grapes, head lettuce, and spinach due to being identified as significant dietary risk contributors.

[3] Acute exposure through oral, dermal, or inhalation routes can cause symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea, sweating, blurred vision, difficulty breathing, and slowed heartbeat.

[5] Chronic exposure to dimethoate can result in symptoms such as disorientation, irritability, impaired memory and concentration, nightmare, and speech difficulties.

[7] In 2011 the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) banned the use of dimethoate containing products on food producing plants in home gardens, as well as on a variety of fruits, berries, cucurbits, and vegetables.

[6][11][12][13] In late October 2020 a Bulgarian farmer, a previous jackpot winner of the national 'toto' lottery drank a glass of the Russian B-58 brand, as of early November 2020 he is hospitalised in a comatose condition, he has a history of psychiatric issues but it is currently unknown whether the incident was accidental or intentional.