"High Pesticide Risk in Popular Produce: 2024 Analysis Reveals"

An analysis by Consumer Reports found that common fruits and vegetables in US supermarkets, including kale, watermelon, and bell peppers, contain potentially unsafe levels of pesticides. The report, based on seven years of USDA data, revealed that roughly 20% of the 59 foods examined posed significant pesticide risks, with conventionally grown kale, blueberries, potatoes, and bell peppers among the highest. Even some organic foods showed pesticide residue, raising concerns about contamination. Imported produce, particularly from Mexico, also posed higher risks. The study highlights the potential health risks associated with pesticide exposure, especially for vulnerable populations like children and pregnant women.