28.04.2025 15:51
According to Greenpeace's new research, harmful pesticide and PFAS residues were found in most fruits and vegetables sold in markets and grocery stores in Istanbul. So, which product poses a higher risk, especially for children, that carries a significant health risk? Details in our news...
Food safety has become one of the most discussed topics in recent years. Especially counterfeit products, imitation foods, and harmful components threaten consumer health. Now, a new study conducted by Greenpeace Turkey has revealed serious risks posed by chemical residues in fruits and vegetables in markets and bazaars. In analyses conducted on 155 samples in Istanbul, multiple pesticides were found in 61% of the products, and PFAS residues were detected in 43% of them.
SURPRISING RESULTS IN MARKET AND BAZAAR PRODUCTS
155 samples of fruits and vegetables collected by Greenpeace Turkey from five major chain markets and various neighborhood bazaars were examined. The striking findings of the research are as follows:
- Multiple pesticide residues were found in 61% of the samples.
- PFAS substances were detected in 43% of them.
- 31.6% of the products did not comply with the Turkish Food Codex.
- Unauthorized pesticide use was detected in 50 products.
Particularly, the use of banned and excessive pesticides in products such as pickled leaves, green peppers, spinach, and pears drew attention.
GREAT DANGER FOR CHILDREN
According to the report prepared by food engineer Dr. Bülent Şık, pesticides seriously affect children's immune, nervous, and hormonal systems. Exposure to these substances during children's developmental periods can result in brain development disorders and serious health problems.
Additionally, it is known that PFAS substances are directly related to many diseases such as cancer, thyroid diseases, liver damage, and fertility issues.
WHICH PRODUCTS HAVE A HIGHER RISK
According to the research, pesticide and PFAS residues were most commonly found in the following products:
- Pickled leaves (80%)
- Green peppers (70%)
- Spinach (67%)
- Curly lettuce (40%)
- Pears (40%)
- Grapes (40%)
- Golden and Starking apples (30%)
- Stuffed peppers, eggplants (20%)
- Tomatoes (13%)
- Oranges (10%)
- Cucumbers (7%)
The residues in these products exceeded legal limits in both quantity and content.
CALL TO THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND FORESTRY
Greenpeace Turkey Director Berkan Özyer called on the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, emphasizing that pesticide analysis results should be announced regularly. Özyer stated, "The right of children to access healthy and clean food must be protected."
WHAT ARE PFAS AND PESTICIDES, AND WHY ARE THEY DANGEROUS?
PFAS: Belongs to a group of "forever chemicals" that remain in the environment and human body for a very long time, associated with cancer and various serious diseases.
Pesticide: Chemicals used in agriculture to control pests. Prolonged exposure can lead to cancer, hormonal disorders, and nerve system damage.