Editorial Team
... Read More
By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookie Policy.
Written By: Editorial Team | Updated : July 27, 2021 11:30 AM IST
Image credits by: Simply washing fruits and vegetables with tap water reduces pesticide levels by 60–70 %. © Shutterstock
The harmful effects of the pesticides are now established worldwide. The harm caused may be acute or chronic in nature. The chronic toxicity affects the whole population. The residues left in the crops, soil and water after use get into the human food chain. Intake of pesticide residues through food and water has been linked to birth defects, toxicity to fetus, cancers, genetic defects, blood disorders, neurotoxicity and endocrine disruption.
Spraying fruits, vegetables, and crops with pesticides protects them from damage due to insects, weeds, and fungi. But coming into contact with large amounts of pesticides can be harmful to human health. Farmers and agricultural labourers are the direct users of pesticides and are more likely to get affected by the acute toxicity of pesticides.
Although most produce contains some level of pesticide residue, food testing ensures that the levels of pesticides are low enough to not pose a risk to human health. Strong laws regulate the sale and use of pesticides. For example, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has set the maximum residue limits of pesticides for various foods.
FSSAI Regulation states:
It may not be possible to completely avoid pesticides in food, as their use is so widespread. The US Environmental Working Group, in its 'Dirty Dozen' study for 2021 that was released in March, revealed that nearly 70% of non-organic produce sold in the country contains pesticide residues. That being said, a person can choose to buy and consume organic produce. Farmers grow and produce organic food in line with government guidelines. These guidelines mean that organic farmers must:
Organic food does not contain pesticide residue, but it can be more expensive.
With increasing awareness about environmental or health concerns related to use of pesticides, people have become more conscious while buying food. There are several strategies you can use to help reduce your exposure to pesticides while also eating plenty of fruits and vegetables.
Ever since the first few cases of black fungus had been reported, there has been extensive media coverage about it. This has led to fear and confusion among the public about its causes and effects. What needs to be understood is that our bodies are constantly attacked by different bacteria and fungi, but they are kept under control by our immune system. It is when this immune system is compromised due to unreasonable use of steroids, diabetes, or cancer treatment; it gives a breeding ground to these fungi and bacteria to grow rapidly.
Black fungus is a serious but rare fungal infection. It is ubiquitous and found in soil and air and even in the nose and mucus of healthy people. Decomposing organic matter such as rotting fruit and vegetables, leaves, and animal manure also have this fungus but do not usually have an effect as it is not transmitted between people. It does spread from fungal spores that are present in the air or in the environment, which are almost impossible to avoid.
Reason for having this infection could be
Healthy people have no need to worry about this infection, AIIMS' Dr Nikhil Tandon has said adding that those who have weakened immunity are only at a greater risk.
He stated, "It may have happened that the Covid variant in the second wave of the pandemic has attacked the immunity more than the first wave which is why so many cases of mucormycosis are being reported."
The mantra to navigating this successfully remains the same: wear masks, maintain social distance, observe appropriate hand hygiene and get vaccinated at your turn. Stay safe.
This article is contributed by Sarika Kumari, Head of Department, Food Testing, MitraSK Pvt Ltd.
Disclaimer: The content on TheHealthSite.com is only for informational purposes. It is not at all professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a healthcare specialist for any questions regarding your health or a medical condition.