Ten most pesticide-contaminated fruits and vegetables observed in Indian markets.
1. Apples
Apples are the most favored and believed healthy fruit in Indian markets. Nonetheless, more than 95 percent of the apples are tested pesticide positive. Also, 92 percent of them have two or more pesticides in them.
2. Potato
90% of the tests have pesticide contaminants. From breakfast to salad, snacks to dinner, the potato has reserved its place on an Indian menu. But, it’s a piece of sad news to break, almost 90% of potatoes are pesticide positive.
3. Cucumber
Its greeny skin has all the danger with 86% of pesticide content. Cucumbers contain thick skin over them, which protects the actual matter. Although cucumbers have 86% of pesticide, that is all on the skin. Peeling the skin off before consumption makes it all safe for you.
4. Spinach
Spinach has 65 percent of it tested positive for pesticides. Now, think before you give spinach to your kids for maintaining the proportions of the green.
5. Tomato
It contains multiple pesticides with few showing 13 different contaminants in a single sample. Tomato has a unique history with the Indian kitchens. No matter what the recipe is, the tomato has to be added for its distinct flavor. Indeed, for its demand, to preserve the product longer, multiple pesticides are used. A single sample of tomato has shown 13 different pesticide contaminants in it.
6.Green chilies
Green chilies are the favorite spice ingredients for regular food preparations. But, did you know that there are nations that have banned green chilies from India? It is because of the high amounts of pesticides present in them.
7. Strawberry
It contains more than 10 distinct pesticides in a single sample. The delicious juicy fruits are more susceptible to pesticides. Although only 30 percent are tested positive for pesticides, they contain more than 10 distinct ones. There are samples with even 20+ significant contaminants.
8. Imported & local grapes
Both carry vast contaminants varying between 13 to 14 sources. Particular grapes have a higher price when compared to others as they are imported. Yet, no difference in the levels of pesticide contaminants they have. The samples of exported grapes have shown 14 variants of pesticides, whereas the local grape has 13 variants.
9. Cauliflower
Vegetables like cauliflower and cabbage play a crucial role in enhancing women’s health; Doctors even recommend them for the health benefits of women. However, they are now coated with layers of pesticides to have a fresh green look.
10. Coriander leaves
Although the coriander leaves are best preferred for toppings, they are high nutritional valued leaves. The coriander leaves in Indian markets have to face the wrath of pesticides with their higher MRL.