Organic Agricultural Research Institute: Hungarian apples are safe

The research institute responded to the research published by PAN Europe last week, in which the civil organization made its findings regarding pesticide residues found in apples marketed in Europe and Hungary.

ÖMKi pointed out that Hungarian producers comply with the current maximum residue limits (MRL) in most cases

Domestic products comply with the requirements of the currently valid food hygiene regulations, therefore they are considered safe. At the same time, the research institute agrees with the finding that the EU and thus Hungary’s food safety regulations currently ignore the fact that conventionally produced (non-organic) vegetables and fruits usually contain residues of several active ingredients of pesticides at the same time, a so-called cocktail effect. Therefore, according to the OMKi’s position, it is advisable to minimize the burden caused by pesticide residues, especially for vulnerable groups, such as children, the elderly and the sick. They drew attention to the fact that vegetables and fruits from organic farming, commonly known as “organic”, have a much lower pesticide residue content than conventional ones. This is due to the production technology of organic farming, which excludes the use of synthetic chemical pesticides. Numerous clinical studies support that the consumption of organic products can significantly reduce the presence of pesticide breakdown products in the body even in the short term – they added.

Logo distinguishes organic food

ÖMKi notes: although the majority of consumers associate organic food primarily with the absence of chemicals and a commitment to sustainability, there is still confusion regarding the specific organic farming regulations and the concept and labeling of organic food. In the European Union, (organic) foods from organic farming are distinguished from other products by the so-called EU organic logo for consumers. The green leaf logo with white stars on a green background can only be displayed on the packaging of foods that have met the requirements of organic farming from the field to the store shelf – and this can be proven with a certificate from organic control organizations accredited by food inspection authorities (currently Biokontroll Hungária Kft. or Bio Garancia Kft. in Hungary). Hungary has excellent organic table apple producers, and professional consultants specializing in organic plant protection technology support them in producing marketable, food-grade products – explains OMKi – and most retail chains or food distributors active in e-commerce offer organic products, including organic apples, to customers. The technology for organic production and the appropriate quality are therefore available. However, the yield of organic apple production is on average 80-95 percent of that of conventional production. According to OMKi, the difference does not endanger the supply chain – especially if we take into account the current level of food waste.

MTI