Pesticides report criticises supermarkets
Friends of the Earth survey slams high levels in fruit and veg
August 8 2002
Somerfield has come out worst in a Friends of the Earth survey looking at the level of pesticides in fresh produce on sale.
The survey, based on Government data compiled by the Pesticides Safety Directorate between 1998 and 2001, shows that 60 per cent of fruit and vegetables sold in Somerfield over the past four years contain pesticide residues.
The eight other supermarkets surveyed all recorded levels between 40 and 50 per cent.
Somerfield responded to the finding by pointing out that its food complies with government rules. “The products we sell all comply with UK regulations and are safe,” it said in a statement.
Friends of the Earth is calling on retailers to phase out the use of the most risky pesticides. So far Marks and Spencer and Co-op have introduced policies to phase-out particular pesticides and aim for residue free food. Both retailers recently signed up to Friends of the Earth’s toxic pledge which also requires them to phase out other chemicals said to pose ge=helath risks.
Friends of the Earth also criticised Sainsbury’s message on its plastic bags claiming “we’re committed to using natural alternatives to pesticides where possible,” when the survey showed that 48 per cent of its fruit and veg contains the pesticide residues.
The campaigning group also wants the Government to do more. It has called for the introduction of strict limits for pesticides in fruit and vegetables and put more resources into helping UK growers produce residue-free food.
Sandra Bell, pesticide campaigner at Friends of the Earth, said:
“There is too much hype from supermarkets about their plans to cut pesticide use, and not enough action. Only the Co-op and M&S have made a real commitment to getting pesticides out of their food. Government action is needed too. Stricter limits for pesticide residues in fruit and vegetables must be introduced and more is needed to help UK farmers produce pesticide-free food.”
