Studying the risks of chemically grown produce

BY JULIE SEAMER
TUESDAY, MAY 27, 2008

Are we at risk of over-exposure to pesticides? Can chemically grown produce pose a long-term threat to our health? These are the questions being raised after a recent Choice investigation into commercially grown strawberries which found pesticide residue in nearly all berries tested.

Strawberries sampled were purchased from independent fruit shops and two major supermarkets. Four organic samples were all clear of pesticide residues excepting one which had traces of a fungicide (possibly attracted via spray drift from other farms). The pesticide levels in three of the chemically grown samples were in excess of the maximum residue limit (MRL) or contained pesticides not permitted for use on strawberries (such as endosulphan). More than one pesticide was found in seventeen of the samples with four samples having a cocktail of up to four different pesticide residues, although below their individual MRLs.

The major concerns arising from these studies is the possible cumulative effect caused by multiple pesticides – the impact of which is greatly unknown. Even when levels are below the MRL, eating the same pesticides from different foods may have a ripple effect, tipping the balance of exposure. As a result, to ensure the safety of fruit and vegetables in Australia, a nationwide independent food surveillance program is being called for by Consumer Advocacy Groups.

An article in the New Scientist magazine last year quoted an environmental toxicologist at the University of London's School of Pharmacy saying that 'regulatory bodies were starting to acknowledge that chemical-by-chemical risk assessment provided a false sense of security. When assessing the risk and regulation of pesticide use, the mixture of effects must surely be considered'.

In the meantime, increasing research is revealing the health benefits of organic (chemical-free) foods. Reducing your family's exposure to chemically-grown foods can provide a protective effect, particularly in the case of children, who in constitution are naturally more vulnerable to chemicals.

Abundant Earth has a range of organic food products including health-giving condiments such as Organic Tamari, nutritious cereals such as our Organic Bircher Muesli, hot chocolate and snack bars – all chemical free and delicious.