Pesticide residues found in multiple table grape samples

A Swiss study conducted by the magazine Saldo has revealed significant pesticide residues in table grapes. Out of 20 samples tested from supermarkets, 15 contained traces of pesticides, with one sample containing as many as eight different substances. The study noted that many of these chemicals, including acetamiprid and zoxamide, are toxic to aquatic organisms.

Of the 20 samples analyzed, 14 originated from Italy. While some products showed high residue levels—such as Italian Victoria grapes sold by Volg, which contained eight pesticides, and Italian Cotton Candy grapes from Migros Extra, which had the highest total residue weight—others were clean. Specifically, four Italian samples were found to be completely free of detectable residues.

While washing grapes under running water can remove dust, dirt, and some surface chemicals, experts warn that domestic washing cannot eliminate pesticides that have penetrated the plant tissues. The Environmental Working Group has previously ranked grapes highly on its list of produce with significant pesticide presence.