Fresh Figs & Excessive Use of Pesticides

Pesticide Use on Figs

• Most commercial farms do not spray figs heavily with pesticides, but pesticides are sprayed annually along with herbicides and fungicides. The most commonly used insecticides on figs include methyl bromide and malathion, both of which are considered unhealthy to humans. Cottonseed oil is also used and is less harmful. Figs usually carry less pesticide residue than heavily-sprayed fruits including peaches, apples and bell peppers, but probably carry more pesticides than mangoes, pineapples and avocados. Thoroughly wash fresh figs under fresh water. A small amount of castile soap can aid in thorough removal of residues.

Effects of Pesticides on Human Health

• Pesticides could cause serious diseases, such as cancer, if they build up in the human body from consumption of unwashed fruits. Methyl bromide can cause long-term neurological effects. Unwashed fruit with pesticides are prone to carrying certain bacteria that thrive in such substances, including salmonella. To sufficiently remove these bacteria, use soap and water to clean the fruit. The person responsible for spraying pesticides is the person who will likely inhale or otherwise absorb the most pesticides, particularly when the pesticides are sprayed through the air. Wearing a face mask and full clothing to protect the skin can help reduce this exposure.

Effects of Pesticides on Tree Health

• Pesticides can create a range of detrimental problems for fig trees. Excessive pesticide use can kill off beneficial, pollinating insects. Lack of pollination may lead to premature fruit dropping as the fruit has no need to mature if it does not contains seeds. Too much pesticide use can create aerosol burn from the spray can, which can cause yellowing of leaves. Excessive use of pesticides may cause unwanted pests to come back with a vengeance when their predators are killed off.

Preventing Pesticide Poisoning

• Always follow package instructions when using chemical pesticides. To prevent possible exposure to toxins, avoid consuming figs that have received more pesticide than is recommended. Breathing high concentrations of methyl bromide can be seriously damaging to human lungs and kidneys, so use a face mask to avoid these effects. Switch to safe pesticides, such as neem or cottonseed oil, or biological controls, such as introducing a beneficial insect that consumes fig tree pests.