The use of pesticides remains the main strategy in modern agriculture to combat and prevent agricultural pests, weeds, and diseases. While effective in increasing productivity, these chemical compounds can leave residues in the food consumed by the population. Consequently, the widespread use of these compounds in agricultural environments has been associated with environmental contamination and human health issues worldwide [1, 2]. Several studies indicate that chronic exposure to pesticides may be linked to various health problems, including hormonal disruptions, damage to the nervous system, and, in severe cases, an increased risk of cancer [3].
In this context, companies like OpenScience have stood out by assisting in the precise identification of pesticide residues in agricultural products, such as coffee, and collaborating with large cooperatives to ensure food quality and safety. OpenScience employs advanced chromatography and spectrometry techniques to detect even the smallest amounts of pesticides, providing critical data that aid in decision-making and regulatory compliance.
In addition to the risks to human health, the environmental contamination caused by indiscriminate pesticide use can affect soil, water, and even other forms of life, such as pollinating insects, leading to ecological imbalances [4]. To tackle this challenge, OpenScience also offers consultancy services to agro-sector companies, providing technological solutions that help reduce environmental impact and enhance the sustainability of agricultural production.
More Conscious Consumers
In recent years, consumer concerns about pesticide residues in food have significantly increased. With growing awareness of the health impacts of chemical residues, many consumers seek information about the origin of the products they purchase and the levels of pesticides present in their food choices. This concern is even more prominent among those who prioritize healthy eating, opting for balanced diets and more natural products.
A European survey revealed that consumers consider the use of pesticides, antibiotics, and additives in food production among the most concerning issues. A recent study commissioned by EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) found that 86% of respondents were very or fairly concerned about the use of these substances in food production (see Fig. 1).
Source: Etienne, J. et al., EU Insights – Consumer perceptions of emerging risks in the food chain [5].
As a result, companies are becoming increasingly alert to these concerns, understanding that failing to address them positively could lead to losing consumers. Businesses must not only show but also prove through their products, services, and operations that they are genuinely committed to the planet's health, people's well-being, and their own business sustainability. These points will increasingly play a critical role in organizational longevity [6-7].
OpenScience, with its presence in the agro-sector, has directly contributed to enabling producers to ensure the quality and safety of their food by utilizing cutting-edge technologies to detect pesticide residues. Collaborating with leading grain and coffee producers worldwide, OpenScience plays a vital role in strengthening sustainable agricultural practices.
Government Regulations
Legal and commercial obligations have driven food sector companies to increase their efforts regarding chemical contamination of their products. OpenScience has been instrumental in helping companies meet strict regulatory requirements through detailed analyses and reliable diagnostics, ensuring that food complies with acceptable chemical residue limits.
The best example of contaminant control comes from Europe, where pesticide use is strictly regulated. Several substances confirmed as harmful to human and environmental health have been banned, although they continue to be produced and sold to emerging countries like Brazil. The European Union (EU) is the largest global importer of agricultural and food products and enforces strict inspections on these imports to ensure compliance with its legislation. As a principle, all food products in EU markets must be safe, regardless of origin [8].
Brazil's Situation in the Global Pesticide Context
Major agricultural producers like Brazil are striving for greater trade openness with the EU, but one of the barriers is precisely the excessive use of pesticides above acceptable limits. Since 2008, Brazil has been the world’s largest consumer of agrochemicals [9]. Additionally, many active ingredients used in Brazil are banned in other markets. Brazil also exceeds the Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) acceptable in the EU, which hampers its market presence in Europe. In recent years, some Brazilian agricultural products, such as fruits, vegetables, and grains, have failed international inspections due to pesticide residue levels above permitted limits. Notable cases include soybeans and coffee, which face trade barriers in markets like the EU and US due to unauthorized or excessive pesticide residues [10].
This global concern about pesticide contamination in food frequently cites Brazil in international studies on agrochemical usage.
How to Control and Monitor Pesticide Use?
Discussing food quality control, especially in pesticide residue analysis, is complex as it involves various concepts, technologies, investments, and specialized labor. OpenScience offers comprehensive analysis and consultancy solutions, employing chromatography, spectrometry, and chemometrics to ensure more sensitive and selective analyses. These technologies allow agribusinesses to achieve precise results while maintaining quality and compliance with international regulations.
OpenScience’s Role
With extensive experience in the agricultural sector and its mission to democratize access to high-quality technology, OpenScience is expanding its presence into various agro areas, aiming to provide innovative solutions that meet producers' needs. We believe partnerships between companies and institutions are essential for improving the future of the agricultural sector, and we are ready to collaborate with companies seeking excellence and innovation.
Contact us to develop innovative solutions that will improve your product quality and contribute to the sustainability of the agricultural market.
Reference
de Oliveira, L.A.B., H.P. Pacheco, and R. Scherer, Flutriafol and pyraclostrobin residues in Brazilian green coffees. Food Chemistry, 2016. 190: p. 60-63.
Piccoli, C., et al., Pesticide exposure and thyroid function in an agricultural population in Brazil. Environmental research, 2016. 151: p. 389-398.
Kucharski, K.W., Câncer e agrotóxico: uma análise na região de saúde fronteira noroeste do Rio Grande do Sul. 2021.
Lopes, C.V.A. and G.S.C.d. Albuquerque, Agrotóxicos e seus impactos na saúde humana e ambiental: uma revisão sistemática. Saúde em debate, 2018. 42(117): p. 518-534.
ICF, et al., EU Insights–Consumer perceptions of emerging risks in the food chain. EFSA Supporting Publications, 2018. 15(4): p. 1394E.
Vieira, G., Estudo do perfil do potencial consumidor de vestuário sustentável na cidade de Florianópolis. 2016.
Voltolini, R., Vamos falar de ESG?: Provocações de um pioneiro em sustentabilidade empresarial. 2021: Editora Voo.
Wodtke, G.D.G., Segurança alimentar: o acesso à informação sobre agrotóxicos na jurisprudência do Tribunal de Justiça da União Europeia. 2023.
Braga, V.d.S.M., Gestão de risco no uso de pesticidas: uma análise jurídica no Brasil e na União Europeia. 2022.
Alves, R.F., Atlas do agronegócio: fatos e números sobre as corporações que controlam o que comemos. Revista Verde Grande: Geografia e Interdisciplinaridade, 2021. 3(01): p. 222-227.
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