PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
Alarmed by reports of use of pesticides and harmful chemicals in fruits and vegetables, the Food Safety and Drug Administration (FDA) department of Uttarakhand has launched a state-wide drive for testing of fruit and vegetable samples. It has also asked the agriculture and horticulture departments to conduct awareness workshops for farmers about the harmful effects of excessive pesticide use.
In a letter addressed to the Agriculture and Horticulture secretary, the FDA commissioner Sachin Kurve said that the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has regularly conducted surveillance campaigns revealing the presence of pesticide residues in food. He emphasised that unscientific pesticide application in agriculture has resulted in residues exceeding permissible limits in fruits, vegetables and other food items, posing a significant public health risk. As a response, it is essential to organise awareness workshops for farmers on this issue. Additionally, fruit and vegetable vendors, as well as local market traders, also need to be informed.
FDA deputy commissioner (Headquarters) Ganesh Kandwal said that, following the commissioner’s directives, the department has begun collecting fruit samples from across the State for laboratory testing. So far, 95 samples of fruits, including mangoes, bananas, papayas and watermelons, have been gathered. This campaign will continue, he said.
Pertinently in view of the ongoing Char Dham Yatra the chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami had recently directed the State administration to crackdown on food adulteration and the use of harmful chemicals, keeping public health in mind.
