Rising concerns over Chemical-laden produce
Fruits and vegetables are universally promoted as vital components of a balanced diet due to their rich content of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fibre. However, growing concerns are being raised globally over the increasing use of chemicals, pesticides and artificial agents in farming and post-harvest processing, which experts warn may pose serious health risks.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), natural toxins and chemically induced contaminants in food can trigger a range of health complications, from allergic reactions and gastrointestinal disorders to severe poisoning and even death in extreme cases.
An article published by the DPU Ayurved College has highlighted how modern agricultural practices are exposing consumers to harmful chemical residues through everyday fruits and vegetables.
WHO warns of serious health risks
The WHO states that some natural toxins develop in foods as defence mechanisms in plants or due to fungal infestation and microbial contamination. However, chemical contamination arising from excessive pesticide use and artificial ripening has emerged as an equally alarming concern.
The organisation notes that adverse effects of food toxins may include: Acute poisoning, Severe stomach pain and diarrhoea, Allergic reactions, Neurological disorders, Hormonal imbalance, Liver and kidney damage, Increased cancer risk, etc. Experts warn that repeated exposure to small quantities of toxic chemicals over a long period can accumulate in the body and contribute to chronic diseases.
Pesticides and insecticides widely used
One of the most common forms of contamination in fruits and vegetables comes from pesticides and insecticides sprayed during cultivation. Organophosphates: Chemicals such as chlorpyrifos are widely used on crops including tomatoes, brinjal, okra and cabbage to control insects and pests. Health experts warn that organophosphates affect the nervous system and prolonged exposure may lead to:Headaches and dizziness, Nausea and breathing difficulty, Neurological disorders, Developmental issues in children, etc.
Another commonly used class includes neonicotinoids such as imidacloprid, frequently sprayed on fruits and vegetables.Studies have linked excessive exposure to: Nerve damage, Toxicity affecting brain function, Ecological harm, especially to bees and pollinators.
Artificial ripening of fruits raises alarm
Artificial ripening has become increasingly common to meet market demand and improve visual appeal of fruits. Calcium Carbide: is illegally used in several places to ripen mangoes and bananas quickly.
When exposed to moisture, calcium carbide releases acetylene gas, which accelerates ripening. However, the chemical often contains traces of arsenic and phosphorus hydride, both considered highly toxic. Health impacts include: Mouth ulcers, Abdominal pain, Vomiting and diarrhoea, etc
Ethephon: Ethephon is another chemical used for artificial ripening. Though regulated in certain concentrations, excessive use can be harmful. Overexposure may lead to: Skin and eye irritation, Gastrointestinal disorders, Hormonal disturbances.
Vegetables artificially coloured to appear fresh
To improve market appeal, traders sometimes use artificial colouring agents on vegetables. Metallic Lead and Copper Sulphate: Chemicals such as metallic lead and copper sulphate are reportedly applied to vegetables like green chillies, bottle gourd and okra to make them appear greener and fresher. Medical experts caution that lead exposure can result in: Brain and nerve damage, Learning disabilities in children, Kidney dysfunction, High blood pressure, etc.
Wax coating and preservatives on fruits
Imported and commercially stored fruits are often coated with waxes and preservatives to improve shine and extend shelf life. Paraffin Wax and Diphenylamine (DPA): Apples and pears are commonly coated with paraffin wax, sometimes mixed with fungicides such as Diphenylamine (DPA). While food-grade waxes are considered permissible within limits, concerns arise over excessive or industrial-grade coatings.
Growth hormones used to increase size
Reports also indicate misuse of growth hormones such as oxytocin in vegetables like pumpkins and bottle gourds to enhance size and speed up growth.Medical experts warn that uncontrolled exposure to oxytocin residues may contribute to Reproductive health complications.
