If a pesticide is declared a carcinogen does that mean it will definitely give me a cancer if I consume it as a residue in food?

If a substance is classified as a known carcinogen for example, it does not automatically mean that exposure to it will definitely result in the development of cancer. The classification simply means that in tests for toxicity the substance can cause a particular effect. There are many factors that influence our response to chemicals other than just our exposure to them, including genetic susceptibility. The length, quantity and frequency of exposure also affect likelihood. However, we simply do not know enough to be able to categorically state that dietary exposure to carcinogens and other chemicals will not have negative long-term effects on individuals. This is particularly true of pesticide mixtures which, despite their prevalence, are largely ignored by the regulatory system designed to protect us. Given the huge uncertainty, eliminating exposure to such chemicals, where it is possible to do so, is the precautionary and correct way to proceed.