Vegetables and fruits with pesticides above legal limits

Phytosanitary inspectors sound the alarm about the toxicity of vegetables and fruits. Find out which products have been found to contain dangerous levels of pesticides.

Following intensified controls this year, the phytosanitary authorities in Romania discovered a worrying increase in the number of food products containing pesticides above legal limits. In total, 28 types of fruits, vegetables and grains were identified as having toxic substances in concentrations unsafe for human consumption.

Tomatoes and green onions, among the products contaminated with pesticides

According to data provided by the authorities, tomatoes recorded the highest number of samples with pesticides above the limits, with seven non-compliant tests. Next in the ranking are green onions, where five samples were found to exceed the safe limits. Other vegetables and fruits, such as dill, parsley, apples, celery and eggplant, were also on the black list of contaminated products.

This situation represents a major risk to the health of consumers, considering that pesticides used in excess can have toxic effects, especially in the case of frequent or long-term consumption. According to the source antena3.ro, the authorities warn that these results are a signal to intensify controls and to impose strict measures on producers and distributors of food products.

Intensification of controls: Over 800 scheduled tests

This year, the number of tests carried out increased by 30%, and phytosanitary inspectors are determined to continue the checks. In the coming weeks, checks will include vegetables in the “second cycle” of production, such as peppers, cucumbers and other varieties of tomatoes grown in greenhouses and solariums. More than 800 tests are planned nationwide, and authorities promise to be vigilant to protect consumers from exposure to dangerous substances.

What exposure to pesticides above safe limits means for consumers

Eating food with pesticides in amounts above the legal level can lead to serious health problems. Pesticides are substances used to control plant pests and diseases, but when used in excess or improperly, they become toxic to humans. Studies have shown that exposure to high levels of pesticides can damage the nervous system, increase the risk of cancer and affect children’s development.

That is why the authorities recommend washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly before consumption and, if possible, choosing organic products, which are less exposed to the excessive use of pesticides.

What you can do to protect yourself

1. Wash the products well: Rinse fruits and vegetables with warm water and, if possible, use a brush to remove any residue from their surface.
2. Opt for organic products: Although more expensive, organic products are subject to strict rules regarding the use of pesticides.
3. Buy from trusted sources: Local market or certified producers may be safer alternatives.

What’s next?

The authorities promise regular and more intensive controls in the coming months. Phytosanitary inspectors will continue to monitor produce in all regions of the country to ensure compliance with safe pesticide limits. Consumers are advised to remain attentive to the origin of the products and to inform themselves about possible food alerts issued by the authorities.

This warning is a strong signal to producers and distributors, but also to consumers, that food safety must be a priority.