How do you remove all the insectide and pesticide sprayed on the vegetables from the product before it reaches consumers?

Expert response from David Shaw

Giles Distinguished Professor of Weed Science at Mississippi State University

Tuesday, 06/08/2013 17:06

It is first important to know that pesticides go through a natural degradation process as soon as they are applied. This varies widely, based on which pesticide, but is substantial in all cases.  It is, of course, important to wash fresh fruits and vegetables to remove pesticides, as well as microorganisms, dirt and other sources of contamination.  However, EPA requires data on toxicity and pesticide residues to ensure that concentrations higher than what would normally be in or on food products after the maximum amount that can be legally sprayed will not cause harm.