Results from tests carried out by the Independent Pesticide Residues Committee have shown that fresh produce used as part of the UK-wide School Fruit Scheme have no residues above the Maximum Residue Level (MRL) – a verdict that has been welcomed b y the Fresh Produce Consortium (FPC).
The results, which were taken from fruit and vegetables used during the autumn term in 2008, showed that samples contained either no detectable residues or residues below the MRL.
According to the FPC, the results show that produce in the scheme is consistently safe to eat, reinforcing the 'pivotal role' that the scheme plays in encouraging healthy eating habits in children.
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,' said the FPC's CEO Nigel Jenney. 'FPC's 'Code of Practice for the Control of Pesticides' is recognised by the School Fruit and Vegetable Scheme and 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,' he added.
No comments yet