The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has tested more than 86,000 food samples from across the country between 2022 and 2025 to check for pesticide residues. About 2.8 percent of these samples were found to have pesticide levels higher than the safe limits set by FSSAI.
How Food is Tested for Pesticides
The Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare funds a project called “Monitoring of Pesticide Residues at National Level” (MPRNL). Under this project, food samples like vegetables, fruits, spices, cereals, pulses, herbs, fish, meat, eggs, tea, and milk are collected from different regions. Thirty-five laboratories that are officially approved analyze these samples to find any pesticide residues.
Regular Checks and Actions to Keep Food Safe
FSSAI and state food safety teams regularly check food products through inspections and random testing. They especially increase these efforts during festivals and busy seasons when food demand is high. If any food is found with pesticide levels above safe limits, more tests are done. When unsafe samples are confirmed, legal actions are taken against the food sellers who do not follow the rules. These efforts help ensure that the food available to consumers meets safety standards and is safe to eat.
Date : 24 August 2025
Time : 10 AM to 5 PM
Fee : Rs. 1180
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