Report reveals high pesticide levels in imported fresh and frozen strawberries

From a recent study by Consumer Reports, a nonprofit consumer advocacy group, found that some fresh, frozen, and canned non-organic fruits and vegetables are contaminated with worrying levels of pesticides. Imported and domestic green beans also tested high for pesticides, even samples labeled as organic, making them “the only organic food we found with significant amounts of pesticides,” according to James Rogers, director of food safety research and testing at Consumer Reports.

However, the Food Industry Association assured consumers that “all pesticides undergo an extensive review process by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to ensure they are safe for human consumption and to establish tolerances, the maximum residue limit allowed on or in a food.”

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration also has a responsibility in enforcing these tolerances, including on imported products. The Alliance for Food and Farming told CNN via email that farmers prioritize safety because their families are often their first consumers. They added that decades of government data prove the safety of fruits and vegetables, while nutritional studies highlight the health benefits of eating conventionally grown produce.

Tips for reducing pesticide exposure

1. Be selective: Buy choices that are low in pesticides

Depending on the type of product you are looking for, pesticide levels can vary significantly. When purchasing fruits and vegetables, choose low-pesticide alternatives where possible. Some of these include avocados, asparagus, broccoli, cabbage, cantaloupe, cauliflower, eggplant, grapefruit, honeydew melon, kiwi, mangoes, onions, papayas, pineapple, sweet corn, sweet peas (frozen), and sweet potatoes.

2. Choose Seasonal Products

Buying produce when in season not only helps reduce your exposure to pesticides, but also ensures you get the freshest and tastiest fruits and vegetables available. Moreover, seasonal products are often cheaper.

3. Go local: support farmers and farmers markets

Buying local fruits and vegetables at a farmers market allows you to have a direct connection to the farmer who grew the food. This way you can inquire about their farming practices and pesticide use, while supporting a member of the local community. Additionally, locally grown produce tends to contain fewer chemicals because they do not travel long distances and require fewer preservation techniques.

4. Wash your produce thoroughly

While washing produce won’t remove all traces of pesticides, it can help reduce your exposure. Simply rinsing your fruits and vegetables under running water can remove up to 80% of pesticide residues. You may also consider using a vegetable brush to scrub the surface of harder-shelled items or peel off the outer layers if possible, but be aware that this may decrease the nutritional value.

5. Grow your own fruits and vegetables

If you have room for a garden or even a few containers on a patio, growing your own fruits and vegetables can be an effective way to avoid pesticides entirely. This allows you to control what goes into your soil and how pests are managed. This method not only reduces pesticide exposure, but also brings additional benefits such as outdoor exercise and cost savings.

6. Eat a varied diet

One way to minimize the potential risks associated with consuming contaminated products is to eat a varied diet. Consuming a variety of fruits and vegetables can help limit your exposure to any type of pesticide residue. A balanced diet also ensures that you get a wide range of nutrients essential for good health.

When in doubt: choose organic

Going organic is a surefire way to reduce your exposure to pesticides on produce. According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), people who eat organic produce consume fewer pesticides than those who eat conventionally grown varieties. Additionally, research has shown that organically grown foods tend to be more nutritious due to factors such as healthier soil and lower use of synthetic chemicals during production.

A healthy life starts with conscious choices

Taking steps to avoid pesticide exposure when purchasing fruits and vegetables contributes to your long-term health and well-being. Stay informed, make informed choices, and enjoy the many benefits of a plant-based diet for years to come!