Health Effects of Pesticides and Their Situation in Türkiye
Pesticides are chemicals widely used to control pests in agriculture. However, the effects of these substances on human health are extremely worrying, especially for children. Recent studies in Türkiye show that pesticide residues in vegetables and fruits are at levels that can threaten health.
Greenpeace Türkiye Report
The report prepared by Greenpeace Türkiye was carried out by examining vegetables and fruits purchased from five chain markets and various neighborhood markets in Istanbul. In this research, a total of 155 examples According to the analysis results, pesticide residues contrary to regulations were detected in one out of every three products. %33 It has also been observed that there is a high rate of unlicensed pesticide use.
Effects of Pesticides on Health
The effects of pesticides on human health can be grouped under two main headings: acute ve chronic effects. Acute effects are manifested by symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and headache that occur in the event of short-term exposure. On the other hand, long-term exposure at low doses can lead to chronic poisoning. It is possible to be exposed to pesticides through food, drinking water, inhalation and skin.
Children and Pesticides
Especially children’s exposure to pesticides can negatively affect their development. Public health expert Prof. Dr. Çiğdem Çağlayan states that hormonal disorders such as early puberty are observed in children. This can cause early menstruation in girls and sperm abnormalities in boys.
Pesticide Use and Control Processes in Türkiye
In Türkiye, pesticide use is regulated by the Turkish Food Codex Maximum Residue Limits of Pesticides Regulation. The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry is responsible for carrying out these inspections. In the 2021-2023 period 250 bin pesticide inspection has been carried out and pesticide residue rate %35 decreased by 10%. However, it has been determined that some banned pesticides are still being used.
Food Safety and European Union Standards
The European Union determines maximum residue limits in food and feed in order to protect human health. In case of detection of non-compliant products, the public is informed through RASFF (Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed). Agricultural products exported from Türkiye must meet EU standards; otherwise, they are rejected.
Pesticides Containing PFAS and Their Risks
Another issue that draws attention in pesticide analyses is pesticides containing PFAS (perfluorinated and polyfluorinated alkyl substances). It is known that these components can negatively affect children's development and impair reproductive health. The samples analyzed by Greenpeace Türkiye On the 67th Residues of at least one PFAS containing pesticide were detected.
The Effect of Pesticides on Nature and Ecosystem
The effects of pesticides on the environment are also extremely important. These chemicals can mix with air, water and soil and disrupt the ecosystem balance. The death of beneficial creatures such as bees, birds and fish in particular shows the damage pesticides do to nature. Experts emphasize that organic farming should be encouraged and biological control methods should be expanded in order to reduce pesticide use.
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Pesticide use in Türkiye poses serious risks to both human health and the environment. Effective controls, support for organic farming and awareness raising among consumers are necessary to ensure food safety and reduce pesticide residues. Solving existing problems related to pesticides is of critical importance in protecting public health.
