Dear EarthTalk: What is the most effective way to remove pesticide residues from the fruits and vegetables I buy at the supermarket?

—RLJ, Kansas City, Kansas

For many decades, pesticides have been an important way for farmers to ensure their crops aren’t overrun by weeds or eaten by pests. As a result, pesticides are still widely used today, although pesticide residues still pose many health risks to people who eat fruits and vegetables. It’s worth noting that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has set limits on the amount of pesticide residues on produce – called “tolerances” – to ensure that people are most likely not to be affected by harmful “persistent organic pollutants” (POPs) like glyphosate and atrazine. However, it’s still important that you make an individual effort to clean produce to further protect your personal health and safety.

A recent report from the American Chemical Society analyzed data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and found that 20 percent of 59 different categories of fruits and vegetables pose significant health risks to consumers despite current pesticide limits. Researchers developed new methods to find and remove pesticide traces in fruits and vegetables because they found that traditional methods of cleaning fruits and vegetables were inadequate. Specifically, the report suggests that pesticides migrate beyond the surface of the fruit into the food, meaning washing may not be as effective. More research is needed to fully determine the risks and impacts of current pesticide limits. Regardless, all produce should be thoroughly cleaned before consumption.

There are differing opinions on the best methods for removing pesticide residue from fruits and vegetables, and no method is 100 percent effective. Rinsing fruits and vegetables is somewhat helpful in removing dirt and germs, but soaking fruits and vegetables in warm vinegar or salt solution may be better. However, some sources claim that chemicals can form more complex, equally dangerous chemical compounds through contact with these solutions, so always rinse fruits and vegetables thoroughly after soaking. Finally, peeling or cooking fruits and vegetables can be very effective at removing residue, but nutrients are lost in the process.

Of course, you can only significantly reduce your exposure to synthetic chemicals in food if you buy organic food, as organic food is not grown using dangerous pesticides. You may have to pay a little more, but isn’t your health and peace of mind worth it?

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