Chemicals on citrus fruit labels spark consumer concerns

The labels listed chemicals including azoxystrobin, fludioxonil, imazalil, 2-phenylphenol, thiabendazole, pyrimethanil, and fludioxonil. E903 was also identified as a component of the wax coating on some citrus fruits.

According to the Pesticide Action Network UK (Pan UK), four of these chemicals have been linked to negative health effects, with two classified as Highly Hazardous Pesticides (HHPs). Nick Mole, policy manager at Pan UK, explained that these chemicals are used primarily to extend storage and transportation times, often due to their lower cost compared to alternatives like refrigeration or natural extracts.

He elaborated on specific chemicals, noting that imazalil is considered a possible carcinogen and developmental toxin, while 2-phenylphenol, thiabendazole, and pyrimethanil have also been flagged as potential carcinogens or endocrine disruptors.

While the EU considered reducing residue limits for imazalil in 2018, the changes were implemented in 2019 and only applied to bananas, apples, and pears. Supermarkets are not legally required to disclose these chemicals, although Lidl has acknowledged that the “peel unfit for consumption” warning was a labelling error. The company maintains that the products meet UK safety standards and are undergoing rigorous testing.

“We can assure our customers that these products have not changed and continue to fully comply with all UK safety standards,” a Lidl spokesperson stated. “We are working with our supplier to have the packaging label updated to avoid confusion.”

For consumers seeking to avoid these chemicals, organic options are recommended. Sarah Hathaway, head of technical at Soil Association Certification, emphasized that organic farming prohibits synthetic pesticides in both production and post-harvest processes, offering a safer alternative.