‘Pesticide cocktails’ polluting apples across Europe, study finds

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 2 min read 100% complete by Agence France-PresseJanuary 29, 2026 at 01:38 PM

AI Summary

medium article 2 min

A study by Pan Europe, a coalition of environmental groups, found that 85% of conventionally grown apples sold across 13 European countries contain multiple pesticide residues. The analysis of 60 apples revealed traces of up to seven different chemicals, including "forever chemicals" (PFAS) and pesticides the EU aims to phase out. While residue levels are within EU limits, Pan Europe raised concerns about the potential "cocktail effect" of simultaneous exposure to multiple pesticides, citing possible links to cancer and infertility. They also noted that 93% of the apples would be banned as baby food due to stricter pesticide limits for young children. The group advises consumers to buy organic apples or peel conventionally grown ones.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Poland 40% Spain 50% Italy 50% France 60% European Union 70% Pan Europe ×280%

Keywords

pesticide cocktails 100% apples 90% pesticide residues 80% european union 70% food safety 60% forever chemicals 50% pfas 50% organic apples 50% baby food 40% apple scab 40%