European Study Identifies Grapes, Strawberries, and Oranges as Most Pesticide-Contaminated Fruits
A comprehensive study by European authorities has identified grapes, strawberries, and oranges as the fruits most contaminated with pesticides. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) conducted an extensive analysis in 2024, examining over 125,000 samples across various programs, including coordinated European efforts, individual member state programs, and specific controls on imported foods. The study found that while most European foods comply with legal pesticide limits, certain fruits consistently show higher levels of pesticide residues. Grapes, strawberries, and oranges were highlighted due to their high contamination rates, with over 60% of grape samples and more than 70% of strawberry samples containing pesticide residues. The study also noted the presence of banned substances like chlorpyrifos, a neurotoxic insecticide, in some samples.