Dangerous pesticides found in Kerala vegetables; excessive toxic residue detected in 62 of 1,258 samples

Agriculture Minister T. Siddique has revealed that vegetables sold in Kerala contain harmful chemicals and dangerous pesticides that can cause serious health problems. Government laboratory tests confirmed that 62 out of 1,258 vegetable samples collected across the state contained pesticide residues exceeding the permissible limits.

The minister said this was the first time in the state’s history that such a large number of samples had been collected, tested in official laboratories and the findings released with precise figures.

Chemicals sprayed even after harvesting

Nearly 90 per cent of the vegetables consumed daily in Kerala come from other states. Apart from the extensive use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides during cultivation, chemicals are reportedly sprayed even after harvesting.

The minister pointed out that consumers’ preference for vegetables without spots or visible damage also encourages excessive chemical use. As a result, families may unknowingly consume pesticide residues along with their daily food.

However, the Agriculture Department believes that imposing an immediate and complete ban on vegetables from other states is not practical, as it could lead to shortages and price hikes in Kerala.

Instead, the government aims to gradually increase domestic production and achieve self-sufficiency in the vegetable sector.

‘Kathir’ project to promote safe food

As part of this initiative, activities have been launched under the ‘Kathir’ project to encourage children to take an interest in farming and raise awareness about chemical-free food.

The minister also suggested that people without sufficient space at home could grow vegetables on terraces, in courtyards and even in grow bags.

The Agriculture Department plans to expand chemical-free vegetable cultivation by involving schools, IT companies and other industrial establishments.

Focus on chemical-free vegetable cultivation

The minister also highlighted that Malayalis are among those who spend the most on healthcare and have a high prevalence of lifestyle-related diseases.

In this context, increasing the production of pesticide-free vegetables is essential to ensure food safety and promote a healthier lifestyle, he stressed.