Anna Hartz
Recent tests show that many apples carry a hidden risk.
Apples are one of the most popular fruits in Europe. They are eaten fresh, baked in pies, or used in juices and baby food. People often think of them as healthy and safe. New study might reveal the opposite to be true.
The risks should be studied
The NGO Pesticide Action Network Europe (PAN Europe) worked with 13 other European organizations to test 59 apple samples from 13 countries, including Spain, reports El Economista. They found that 85 percent of the apples contained more than one pesticide at the same time. On average, each apple had three different pesticides. Some apples had up to seven. Overall, 93 percent of the apples contained at least one pesticide.
The number of apples with multiple pesticides varied across countries. In eight countries, all the apples tested had several pesticides. In Spain, France, and Italy, 80 percent of apples had multiple residues. Denmark had the lowest percentage at 20 percent, and Belgium had 50 percent.
Carlos de Prada, head of the Toxic-Free Home initiative, warned that authorities usually study the risk of each pesticide individually. They do not consider the combined effect of multiple pesticides, which can be much greater. He recommends that people eat local organic apples that are grown without synthetic chemicals.
Neurotoxic pesticides and PFAS chemicals
The report also found that 71 percent of the apples contained pesticides that the European Union considers highly toxic and should be replaced. Thirty-six percent had neurotoxic pesticides, and 64 percent contained PFAS-type chemicals. These substances are very persistent and may form other toxic compounds.
The study raises special concern for young children. It notes that if these apples were sold as processed baby food, 93 percent would not meet safety standards. Parents are advised to choose organic apples whenever possible.
While apples remain nutritious, the report calls for stronger laws and safer farming practices. Toxic pesticides reduce the benefits of this fruit, even though safer alternatives exist.
Martin Dermine, executive director of PAN Europe, said that stricter regulation is needed. He added that some pesticides found in apples should have already been banned. Instead, current proposals by the EU risk weakening health protections. The report makes it clear that better enforcement and safer production methods are essential to protect consumers.
