Pesticide Residue in Canned Foods

by Brady
(Nebraska)

Hey Melissa,

I wanted to commend you on your great information!

I have a question for you about pesticides in canned foods. Are there pesticides, let's say in canned peaches, since this is the fresh fruit with the highest amount of pesticides? Is there any hope for canned fruits or veggies at all?

Take care!



ANSWER


Hi Brady,

Thanks for taking the time to contact me. Your question is a great one as the dangers of pesticides are quite concerning.

All of the data on pesticide residue in canned food has only been done by the food industry (not exactly an unbiased source). However, it is the only data we have to go on...

So the answer to "does canned food have less pesticide residue?" is more than likely "yes." The washing that the fruits and vegetables go through prior to being canned is quite extensive.

Most of the fruits are peeled before canning as well, which is where the bulk of the pesticide residue can be found.

Canned peaches in particular have dramatically lower pesticide levels than fresh. Why? First, processing peaches requires incredibly vigorous washing. Second, because certain varieties of peaches grown just for canning require less pesticide applications.

I hope that completely answers your questions. If have any others, feel free to ask.

Wishing you the best of health,

Melissa
Approach Wellness