Kerala Agriculture Department Enhances Pesticide Residue Surveillance for Safer Food

The Kerala Agriculture Department is overhauling its methodology for gathering surveillance samples to examine vegetables and fruits for pesticide residues, prioritizing the assurance of safe food consumption.

These modifications aim to ensure methodical sample collection from all 152 local body blocks within the state. The Pesticide Residue Research and Analytical Laboratory (PRRAL), situated at Kerala Agricultural University's (KAU) College of Agriculture in Vellayani, will release monthly test results on its website.

These modifications were instigated by a proposal put forth by the Director of Research at KAU, highlighting the importance of the 'Safe to Eat Project' adopting a more proactive approach in raising awareness about the dangers associated with pesticide residues. This proposal was based on the results of two project review meetings held in September.

As part of the 'Safe to Eat' program, samples of vegetables and fruits are obtained from public markets, farmlands, eco shops, and primary check-posts and subsequently subjected to pesticide residue analysis.

Madhu Subramanian, the Director of Research at KAU, highlighted that these adjustments aim to refine the methodical approach to sample collection, ensuring extensive coverage across the state. The reports will also indicate the sources of the fruit and vegetable samples, exerting pressure on stakeholders to guarantee the sale of pesticide-free produce.

Also Read:- Agricultural Department Gears Up to Ensure Timely Supply of Seeds, and Fertilizers for Kharif Farming

In line with the revised sample collection protocol, surveillance samples will be gathered monthly from four blocks, with the schedule determined through collaboration between the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and PRRAL. This approach is anticipated to cover all 152 blocks in the state in slightly over three years. The analysis findings will be published on the PRRAL website during the initial business day of the subsequent month.

In response to these alterations, a government directive stipulates that the head of PRRAL and the FSSAI Commissioner in Kerala will enter into a memorandum of understanding (MoU), delineating mutually agreed-upon action plans. At regular three-month intervals, the amassed data will be subject to analysis to construct a comprehensive overview of pesticide residue prevalence. These results will be made available on the PRRAL website and disseminated in scientific publications.

Also Read:- Punjab Farmers Reconsider Stubble-Burning Machines Due to Cost Concerns

It's worth highlighting that in May of this year, the State government allocated ₹13.34 crore for a vegetable development initiative, with ₹20 lakh specifically designated for conducting pesticide residue analysis, underscoring their dedication to enhancing food safety in the region.

Also Read:- International Tractors Ltd Leads the Way with the Launch of 5 Innovative Tractor Series from Solis