Pesticides in food are a problem that affects the population globally. Who isn't concerned that the products they eat are contaminated?
What are pesticides?
They are chemical molecules that are designed to serve as a direct poison to the organisms they are aimed at.
The problem is that these types of chemical agents have been used directly on crops, but indirectly affect humans and the environment.
Pesticides were developed to combat persistent pests affecting agricultural activity. However, these biocidal compounds are washed away and dissolved by the action of rain, with harmful results for the environment: they contaminate surface water, groundwater and soil.
In this way, they affect the fauna and flora of aquatic environments in rivers and seas, but also humans who may drink them or use them in their daily lives.
Do we eat pesticides?
Thanks to the report published by the EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) in 2019, just over 40% of the food analysed contains some type of pesticide residue. So we can say that yes, we do ingest some of these chemicals in food, but don't panic!
We normally excrete them through urine, but to be safe, it is best to always wash your food before handling or consuming it. Peeling them is also a good option if you are going to make natural juice or a vegetable or fruit puree. Peppers or tomatoes are usually the most at risk of pesticide accumulation, followed by apples, oranges or bananas.
Organic food: an insurance for your health
Although we should not be alarmed as the vast majority of pesticides are controlled, the truth is that organic farming has much stricter rules and restrictions than traditional farming. Therefore, the use of pesticides or chemicals is not common and the food is safer.
Looking forward, one thing is clear: anything that prioritises agriculture that respects the environment and its immediate surroundings is something we should promote and encourage. Therefore, being sustainable also means supporting less use of chemicals in the cultivation of our food.
