Can organic foods have pesticides? What consumers need to know
“Organic” is often taken to mean “grown without pesticides.” That sounds reassuring, but it is not quite right. Organic farms can use pesticides, and residues can sometimes be found on…
Pesticides in fruits and vegetables: what consumers need to know
A bright apple, a handful of berries or a bag of salad can make an easy, healthy meal. But many shoppers also wonder what may be left on the surface…
Does organic vegetables have pesticides? What shoppers need to know
Organic vegetables can contain pesticides. That may sound surprising, given that organic food is often marketed as a more natural choice, but “organic” does not mean “grown without pesticides.” It…
Does organic foods have pesticides? What the evidence says
Organic food is often marketed as a cleaner choice. But does “organic” mean pesticide-free? No. Organic farmers can use pesticides, including some synthetic products where regulations allow them. The difference…
Does Roundup contain glyphosate? What you need to know about its use and water contamination
Roundup is one of the best-known weedkiller brands in the world, but the name can create confusion. Is Roundup the same thing as glyphosate? Does every Roundup product contain it?…
Dirty dozen organic foods: what the list means for pesticide exposure and water quality
The “Dirty Dozen” is often presented as a shopping guide: buy these fruits and vegetables organic, and you will reduce your exposure to pesticide residues. But the list is not…
Pesticide neonicotinoids and their impact on water quality
Neonicotinoids are widely used insecticides designed to protect crops from damaging pests. Their effects on bees have attracted considerable attention, but the story does not end in fields or gardens.…
Can organic food have pesticides? What organic labels really mean for pesticide residues and water quality
“Organic” is often taken to mean “grown without pesticides”. That sounds reassuring, but it is not what the label promises. Organic farms can use certain pesticides, and food labelled organic…
Dirty dozen pesticides: health risks, water contamination and ways to reduce exposure
“Dirty Dozen” sounds like the name of a list of dangerous chemicals. It is not. The term usually refers to an annual list of fruit and vegetables that the US…
Foods with pesticides: common sources and ways to reduce exposure
Finding a pesticide residue on food does not automatically mean that food is unsafe. It does, however, raise a reasonable question: where are residues most likely to occur, and what…