Why are pesticides used and could society do without them? In this episode, we trace the story of agriculture, from its origins to modern day. We meet familiar enemies – pests and diseases – and explore how chemicals are used to control them and keep plants healthy. And we look at how traces can end up in our food - and environment - and what it means for our health and wildlife. Together with EFSA expert Tobin Robinson, we discuss the risks, the science, and the alternatives, from traditional methods to new approaches. And we get up close with an example: the ingredients of an organic pesticide used to protect peaches.
About Science on the Menu: A Food Safety Podcast by EFSA
Is it safe to eat insects? How many cups of coffee can I have per day? How are human, animal and plant health connected? Can we determine animal welfare standards based on scientific evidence? Take a closer look at some of the key topics that EFSA, the European Food Safety Authority, works on to ensure safe food, through providing independent scientific advice to policy makers.