Home Page of the Pesticide Residues Committee (PRC) Website
A message from from the Chair of the PRC, Dr Ian Brown
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Welcome to the Pesticide Residues Committee Website. Hopefully the fact that you are reading this page today indicates that you are interested in finding out more about pesticide residues in food and the UK's national programme of pesticide residues testing.
The results from our most recent surveys of residues in food and drink provide evidence as to the absence of residues in about 70% of tested produce. In almost 30% of samples, residues were below the statutory limits (Maximum Residue Level) which poses no safety concerns for consumers. The Department of Health recommends an intake of at least five portions of fruit or vegetables per person per day to reduce the risk of cancer, heart disease and many other chronic conditions. The positive effects of eating fresh fruit and vegetables as part of a balanced, healthy diet are well proven and far outweigh any concern about pesticide residues.
I hope that you find the information on this website is useful and informative. If you have any points to make or questions to ask please email the PRC or click here for more information on how to contact us.
Best Regards
Doctor IAN BROWN OBE BSc (Agric) FRCP FFOM