PESTICIDE EXPOSURE AND HUMAN HEALTH RISKS IN VEGETABLE PRODUCTION: A NARRATIVE REVIEW OF RESIDUES, OCCUPATIONAL HAZARDS AND RISK REDUCTION STRATEGIES

Abstract

In vegetable farming, synthetic pesticides are commonly used, which has greatly increased yields provided an opportunity to manage pests. The disadvantage is that the use of synthetic pesticides comes with very high risks to our long-term health and food safety, particularly for rural communities. In this review paper, we explore the Indian context in terms of the usual mechanisms of pesticide contamination, levels of pesticide residues in commonly consumed vegetables, and the resulting long- term health impacts. While India is actually using fewer pesticides per acre than the world average, unsafe practices in handling them, harvesting at immature stages, and a lack of regulatory and enforcement capabilities have led to residues that exceed legally allowable limits. Vegetables such as tomatoes, brinjal and chilli commonly have pesticide residues that resist washing and persist during storage, and enter the human food chain, based on numerous studies. Prolonged work exposure to chemically contaminated agricultural produce has led to various health concerns (including neurological conditions such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, cognitive decline, reproductive issues, endocrine disorders, liver conditions, respiratory conditions, and increased cancer risks). Extremely contaminated agricultural areas have also been connected to various mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, and sleep issues. The evaluation points out the urgent need for standardization and ongoing monitoring, as well as gaps in enforcing Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs). It supports using personal protective equipment, monitoring residues, training farmers, applying integrated pest management (IPM), and educating consumers as key strategies. Promoting sustainable farming practices and shifting towards biopesticides are essential steps to protect environmental sustainability, food security, and public health.