Pesticide residues above permissible levels detected in 26 vegetable, fruit samples in latest survey covering three Kerala districts

The latest analysis of vegetables and fruits in three districts found pesticide residues above permissible levels in 13.33% of samples. The study by the PRRAL at KAU detected residues in various produce, including capsicum, bitter gourd, and mango. Insecticides like acephate and clothianidin were among those found. This survey covered 13 block panchayats and 11 municipalities in Thrissur, Kottayam, and Kasaragod districts. The ‘Safe to Eat’ project, revamped in 2023, aims to ensure food safety by conducting regular surveys to monitor pesticide residues in produce.