These substances are used to protect crops against insects and diseases. However, their accumulation in fruit is problematic. Even when legal limits are respected, repeated consumption worries specialists, particularly for children, pregnant women, and sensitive individuals.
Furthermore, some of the molecules found are suspected of being endocrine disruptors. They can interfere with the hormonal system, even in small doses. Thus, regularly eating strawberries can expose us to invisible but real risks, especially when their origin is not clearly identified.
Why are some strawberries more exposed to pesticides?
Not all strawberries present the same level of risk. In reality, it all depends on the production method and the country of origin. In some regions of Europe, intensive farming still relies heavily on the massive use of pesticides to increase yields.
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In these areas, crops are grown on thousands of hectares. They are often protected by greenhouses or plastic sheeting, which promotes humidity and disease. As a result, chemical treatments are used extensively throughout the production cycle.
Furthermore, economic pressure plays a key role. To meet the constant demand from supermarkets, producers are incentivized to deliver visually perfect strawberries, even if it means using more pesticides. Thus, appearance becomes the priority, sometimes at the expense of food safety.
