334 Produce Samples in Karnataka Exceed Pesticide Limits, Parliament Data Shows

Karnataka has recorded the second-highest number of fruit and vegetable samples exceeding permissible pesticide residue limits in the country, according to data tabled by Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan in the Lok Sabha.

Out of 9,176 produce samples tested in Karnataka between 2023 and 2026, 334 were found to contain pesticide residues above the Maximum Residue Limit prescribed by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). Karnataka also recorded the highest total number of samples tested among all states covered in the national monitoring.

Nationally, 70,652 fruit and vegetable samples were tested across 23 states and Union Territories. Of these, 2,223 samples, or 3.1 percent, exceeded the permissible pesticide limits. Telangana topped the national list with 486 non-compliant samples, while Maharashtra ranked third behind Karnataka with 260 samples exceeding permissible limits.

Medical experts have warned that excessive pesticide exposure poses both acute and chronic health risks depending on the chemical, dose, and exposure duration. Doctors noted that excessive or repeated intake can lead to acute pesticide poisoning, neurological disorders, and damage to the liver and kidneys. Certain chemicals can also disrupt hormonal balance, cause developmental and reproductive problems, and increase cancer risks. The risk remains particularly elevated for farm workers who spray and handle agrochemicals without adequate protective gear.

In his parliamentary reply, Chouhan stated that the Union government is promoting Integrated Pest Management and advising farmers to use only pesticides approved by the Registration Committee while adhering strictly to recommended dosages. The central government is also deploying the AI-based National Pest Surveillance System to detect pests and issue advisories, alongside encouraging bio-pesticides and biocontrol agents. Training programmes are additionally being conducted for farmers on the safe and judicious application of chemicals.

Medical professionals advise consumers to thoroughly wash all fruits and vegetables under running water, strip off the outer leaves of leafy greens, and wash their hands after handling unwashed produce to reduce residual exposure.