Go organic: Kale in California contains illegal pesticides

by Stepy — October 23, 2015

The difference between conventional produce and organic produce is simple. Organic produce is grown without using pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, sewage sludge, GMOs, or radiation. Conventional produce does not have these guidelines, so pesticides often end up on these foods.

The USDA National Organic Program (NOP) defines organic as follows:

“Organic food is produced by farmers who emphasize the use of renewable resources and the conservation of soil and water to enhance environmental quality for future generations. Organic meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy products come from animals that are given no antibiotics or growth hormones. Organic food is produced without using most conventional pesticides; fertilizers made with synthetic ingredients or sewage sludge; bioengineering; or ionizing radiation. Before a product can be labeled “organic,” a Government-approved certifier inspects the farm where the food is grown to make sure the farmer is following all the rules necessary to meet USDA organic standards. Companies that handle or process organic food before it gets to your local supermarket or restaurant must be certified, too.”

Every year, California’s Department of Pesticide Regulations (DPR) collects samples of food available in supermarkets to test for safety. The report that was released recently shows that cactus pads tested substantially high in levels of illegal and toxic pesticides. In 2014, 47 percent of cactus pads were so filled with chemicals that the state had to issue a consumer warning.

Other produce that tested high for pesticides were imported ginger from China, limes, papaya, summer squash, tomatillos, chile peppers, and tomatoes from Mexico. Kale in California contains illegal pesticides as well.

“Cactus pads by far were the ones of major concern,” George Farnsworth, assistant director for the DPR’s pesticides-focused division, told the Los Angeles Times.

So next time you are at the supermarket, try to buy organic foods whenever possible.

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