The independent Pesticide Residues Committee has confirmed that the UK is consistently producing fresh produce with little or no residue levels and the industry has been urged to ensure this is maintained.

The vast majority of samples were found to have no residues at or above the maximum residue level (MRL), according to the latest report by the independent Pesticide Residues Committee for the final quarter of 2008.

Nigel Jenney, chief executive of the Fresh Produce Consortium (FPC), said it was key that evidence of residues should not be found: “The survey indicates a good performance from those supplying multiple retailers but it is a concern that a number of samples of speciality beans and yams purchased randomly from independent retailers were found to have residues above the MRL. This issue has arisen previously, and we urge those involved in the supply chain to proactively manage the situation by following our guidance.

“There are stringent standards in place to ensure that the UK consumer can enjoy healthy, good-quality fresh produce, including a rigorous testing and regulatory process for the use of pesticides. The FPC’s Code of Practice for the Control of Pesticides is widely recognised throughout the industry as a well-established practical guide on managing pesticide use and residues. We believe that it is important for everyone within the fresh produce industry to ensure that they maintain high standards and follow good practice to reassure consumers that every care is taken by both UK and overseas growers.

“There is evidence of residues found on UK produce of pesticides which are not approved for use on those crops. We will await the findings of the Chemical Regulations Directorate, which will investigate these cases thoroughly and take the necessary action against any use of non-approved pesticides.

“Fresh produce is recognised as an essential part of our diet, yet people in the UK are not eating enough fresh fruit and vegetables to maintain a healthy diet. Consumers must be able to have confidence that fresh produce is safe to eat and that they can enjoy the benefits of eating a wide variety of fruit and vegetables all year round, grown both in the UK and overseas,” said Jenney.

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