![]() Unfortunately, this study probably won't settle the debate. That information allowed detailed comparisons of pesticide use on fields planted with GMO corn and soybeans, compared to non-GMO fields. Those data came from a private company, which gathered information about the farm practices of 5,000 randomly selected farmers who grew corn and soybeans, the two most widely planted crops in the country. It's based on the most detailed data ever assembled to examine the issue. This week, scientists at Iowa State made a fresh attempt to answer this question. Biotech critics point to the example of crops that have been altered to tolerate specific weedkillers, like glyphosate, thus encouraging farmers to rely more heavily on those herbicides. Backers of GMOs point to the example of crops containing new genes that fight off insect pests, so farmers don't have to spray insecticides. Pesticides include both insecticides and herbicides. In the ferocious, sprawling brawl over genetically modified crops, one particular question seems like it should have a simple factual answer: Did those crops lead to more use of pesticides, or less? Those crops replaced insecticides, and, at first, some herbicides. There's new and detailed data on the impact of genetically modified crops on pesticide use. *The Codex Alimentarius Commission is the international food standards body established by the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations and the World Health Organization.A farmer sprays a soybean field in Granger, Iowa. Peeling of skin from fruits can help eliminate pesticide residues as most of the residue is found on the surface of the fruits.Gently rub the surface of fruits and vegetables while rinsing to help remove pesticide residue.Pay attention to the base of vegetable stems since dirt or residues tend to get trapped there. Generally, a 30-second rinse followed by a 15-minute soak and a final rinse will help to remove a significant portion of pesticide residues. Wash vegetables well before consumption.Industry can play their part by avoiding the excessive use of pesticides on produce and sourcing vegetables from reliable sources that are able to meet our food safety standards and requirements.Ĭonsumers can play their part to ensure the food they purchase is safe to eat by following these tips: While SFA continues to be vigilant and works to ensure that regulatory measures are in place and properly enforced, we need the food industry and consumers to play their part too. Food can be contaminated anywhere along the food chain. What can we do to reduce our exposure to pesticides?įood safety is a joint responsibility shared between the Government, industry and consumers. This ensures compliance with requirements for environmental safety, workers’ safety during pesticide application, and food safety when used on food crops. They must follow the label instructions and wear the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in order to use the pesticides safely. Only pesticide operators certified by SFA can apply or supervise the use of pesticides on farms. Regulating pesticide use in local farms for local produceįor local farms, pesticides used for the commercial cultivation of plants for local food production must be registered with SFA. ![]() Our food safety programme ensures that products which fail our food safety tests will not be allowed for sale, and appropriate enforcement action will be taken. Sampling and testing are performed at the point of import, as well as those in the market. These samples are tested to check that they do not exceed the MRL for pesticides. Samples of imported and locally produced vegetables and fruits are tested for the presence of pesticide residues. We also conduct stepped up, surprise checks in addition to our routine inspections. Fresh vegetables may be inspected upon import to ensure compliance with our food safety requirements. As part of our food safety programme, vegetables and fruits, as with other types of food, can only be imported by licensed importers, and every consignment must be declared and accompanied with a valid import permit. SFA has in place an integrated food safety system from farm-to-fork to ensure that food is safe for consumption. How does SFA ensure that vegetables and fruits in Singapore are safe to eat? ![]()
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