There are several types of chemical contamination that can occur on produce:
1 )Pesticides: Pesticides are chemicals that are used to control pests such as insects, weeds, and fungi. These chemicals can remain on produce even after washing and can pose a health risk to humans if consumed in high amounts.
2) Herbicides: Herbicides are chemicals that are used to control the growth of weeds. They can also remain on produce even after washing and can pose a health risk to humans if consumed in high amounts.
3) Fertilizers: Fertilizers are chemicals that are used to promote plant growth. They can also remain on produce and can cause health problems if consumed in high amounts.
4) Heavy metals: Heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, and mercury can be present in soil and water and can accumulate in produce. These metals can pose a serious health risk to humans if consumed in high amounts.
5) Industrial chemicals: Industrial chemicals such as PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) and dioxins can also contaminate produce. These chemicals are released into the environment through industrial processes and can accumulate in soil and water, eventually entering the food chain.
To reduce the risk of chemical contamination on produce, it is important to follow good agricultural practices such as using pesticides and herbicides according to recommended guidelines, and to regularly test soil and water for contaminants. Consumers can also reduce their risk by washing produce thoroughly before consumption, and by choosing organic produce which is grown without the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers.
Thankfully those are five problems you don’t have to worry about as a CTFC Member.
Our producers don’t use any synthetic fertilizers or pesticides and are committed to regenerative practices. We have a peer-review process to certify that all farmers within our co-op are adhering to the highest standard of animal welfare & safe and sustainable crop production.
Read about all of our producers HERE.
If you have any questions about our products or how they are grown and produced please don’t hesitate to contact us.