What number of times is our food sprayed with chemicals? Of what type and how much?!


Question: Hi!
How can i find out what are the regulations regarding the application of pesticides (including herbicides) and fertilizers in each crop?

I'm interested in the type, amount and number of times sprayed...

Any link to the FAO that deals with those subjects would really help a lot...

thanks!


Answers: Hi!
How can i find out what are the regulations regarding the application of pesticides (including herbicides) and fertilizers in each crop?

I'm interested in the type, amount and number of times sprayed...

Any link to the FAO that deals with those subjects would really help a lot...

thanks!

It depends on the crop and the farmer. Some farmers spray multiple times, even when it's not really visibly needed, just "in case". There are standards of how much of which poison is allowed to be in our fruits and vegetables, but it changes from type of pesticide or herbicide.

I think it would be easiest to look up particular types of pesticides and look at the regulated requirements. Then see what areas of the world they are used on and the typical amount used.

Here is a link to FAO standards of procedure and specifications for pesticides:
http://www.fao.org/ag/AGP/AGPP/Pesticid/...

However, if you want information on regulation of pesticide use, you might want to look and rely on the EPA instead (Environmental Protection Agency). They are the ones that specify instructions per label and the quantities that are still legally permitted to exist in our food supply.

http://www.ific.org/publications/brochur...
Basics of Pesticide Regulation in Food

Here's a database with clinical trial links and lots of information on different pesticides, health impact and a fairly balanced assortment of articles:
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/pesti...

Good luck with your research :)

As many times with as many different chemicals as the producer deems neessary. I would suggest that you start with the dept of agriculture. You are asking for a lot of research.





The consumer Foods information on foodaq.com is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical conditions.
The answer content post by the user, if contains the copyright content please contact us, we will immediately remove it.
Copyright © 2007 FoodAQ - Terms of Use - Contact us - Privacy Policy

Food's Q&A Resources