Question

Given one method which could be allied to reduce our intake of pesticides through food to some extent.

Answer 1

Pesticides are used to control or kill the pests. They are widely used in agriculture, industry, or the medical field. But many of the pesticides are harmful to humans. There are many ways to reduce the intake of pesticides like washing of fruits and vegetables, etc.

Complete answer:
Pesticides are produced to control the inconvenience and damage caused by pests and have helped in reducing disease and increasing the production of food. But the availability and widespread use of pesticides also cause unexpected health risks, both directly and indirectly. Those who use pesticides in-home or those living near the agricultural fields are more exposed to the damages.

There are various ways to minimize pesticide intake through food:
- Washing fruits and vegetables before consumption- there are various products available as fruits and vegetable washers which are developed to remove the pesticides. Rinsing with warm water removes pesticides from the surface of fruits and vegetables. Using a small portion of detergents with a large portion of water also removes pesticides.
- Preferring organic or locally grown fruits and vegetables also reduces the level of pesticides intakes to some extent. As the locally grown products are pesticides free.

Thus by using the above methods, the intake of pesticides through food can be reduced.

Note: There are several other methods to which are implied to reduce the Pesticides intake by having knowledge of which fruit and vegetables are pesticides free, or by growing the fruits or vegetables by own, using the non-toxic pesticides for pest control e.g. natural pesticides.