Some people claim they have problems eating the recommended amount of fruits and vegetables daily because they are concerned about the use of pesticides in growing them. The fact is, pesticides are used to produce most of the fruits and vegetables sold in this country. But it is also a fact that the benefits of eating fresh produce far exceed any risk from pesticide residues, according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Very strict controls govern the use of pesticides on food grown in and imported into the U.S. The FDA runs a strict monitoring program, sampling nearly 10,000 items yearly. Since 1987, when the monitoring began, more than 99% of U.S.-grown and 95% of imported fruits and vegetables have been either free of any residues or had very low levels of residue that fall within established safety tolerances. Most of the violations occur when a pesticide that is approved for some products is found on a different food.
The FDA points out that pesticides are not contaminants. "They are substances applied intentionally for a specific purpose and therefore are subject to very rigorous regulatory control."
If you are concerned about pesticide residue, here are some steps you can take to minimize any risk:
- Wash fruits and vegetables with water.
- Scrub items in which the outer skin is eaten - such as cucumbers, apples, and potatoes - with a brush.
- Throw away the outer leaves of leafy vegetables such as lettuce and cabbage.
- Peel and cook when appropriate, although some nutrients and fiber may be lost when produce is peeled.
Related information
Lifestyle Changes:
Manage weight - Eating well
Source: U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Fruits and vegetables: Eating your way to 5 a day.
