Consumers are focusing on the harmful effects of pesticides like never before
The market for organic foods is developing rapidly as consumers demand safe foods. They are worried about the potential health risks of eating food produced with pesticides and other chemical inputs, and they are concerned about the loss of biodiversity and other environmental problems caused by pesticides.
Consumers are increasingly taking the view that while legal residue limits for pesticides may be “safe” in terms of short-term toxicity, they do not necessarily mean “healthy”. Some retailers have even begun to set their own and lower specifications for pesticide residues than the legally mandated ones.
These factors represent a perfect storm for growers. They are finding it increasingly difficult to deliver on productivity in a truly sustainable way. Growers are also consumers in search of safe and environmentally friendly pest control measures.
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