M8.3 Blog Pesticides

Yesterday evening I went over my Mom’s house and she made chicken, canned green beans, and handmade mashed potatoes. According to the pesticide Action Network North America the foods 

I consumed definitely have pesticides in them. The potatoes can be known to have at least 35 different pesticides on them. They have 6 known or probable carcinogens, 12 hormone disruptors, 7 neurotoxins, and 6 developmental or reproductive toxins. In regard to the potatoes, the most abundant chemicals found on them are, chloropropham and Imidacloprid. These are also Bee killers that cause environmental harm. I was glad to see that poultry had no known pesticide residue or data (however we all know the feed, hormones, and antibiotics they give poultry are not healthy).  There were 5 types of pesticide residues found in canned green beans, 4 human health effects, and 1 environmental effect. Overall, I was really surprised to find that many carcinogens in potatoes. But it makes complete sense because they are grown in the ground where the absorb all of the pesticides that pollute the soil. Then they are harvested sprayed again. They get an overdose of pesticides which we consume quite often.  Personally, I think there needs to be enviro/human consumption friendly methods for pest control and resistance. Maybe massive clear domes over crops or high frequency pest deterrents. I think it should be illegal to use chemicals in pesticides that are terrible for human health or the environment. As public health professionals we should be informing the community about the dangers of nonorganic produce and pesticides. There should be health advisories at grocery stores that make people aware of what they are consuming. Since most people can’t afford to buy organic produce, we can advise them on proper washing techniques. I feel like if people went into the supermarket and looked at a list of all the potential pesticides on their produce-there would be an uproar and likely change. Raising awareness is key.