Accra: A new study conducted by the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA) has uncovered high levels of pesticide residue non-compliance in cabbages sold at the Agbogbloshie and Madina markets in Accra.
According to Ghana Web, the study, carried out in May, revealed that all cabbage samples collected from these markets failed to meet safety standards for eight detected pesticides.
The study found that cabbage samples sourced from Adetor, Kumasi, and Tepa exceeded the established Maximum Residue Levels (MRLs), highlighting significant food safety concerns. However, the study indicated that okra samples, primarily sourced from Dodowa, Kumasi, and Atomic (DVLA), showed relatively better compliance, with about 67 percent meeting pesticide residue standards.
The pesticides identified as being widely used include Acetamiprid, Triticonazole, Carbendazim, Emamectin, and Dimethoate. The report noted that while most okra samples met acceptable food safety standards, two samples from Agbogbloshie Market exceeded permissible limits for Dimethoate and Triticonazole.
The report emphasized that all six cabbage samples surpassed at least one MRL, indicating none met established safety standards. It attributed the situation to possible over-application of pesticides, improper mixing, failure to observe pre-harvest intervals, and inadequate farmer knowledge of safe pesticide usage.
The study was commissioned by the Centre for Indigenous Knowledge and Organisational Development (CIKOD), a non-governmental organization, to support its work in promoting agroecology and sustainable food systems in Ghana. Findings were presented at a stakeholders' dialogue in Accra to develop actionable policy recommendations aimed at promoting agroecological farming systems and enhancing food safety and environmental sustainability.
Wilberforce Laate, Director of Programmes at CIKOD, stated that the study focused on commonly consumed vegetables due to their dietary importance in Ghana. He explained that the pesticide residue assessment aimed to generate evidence on contamination levels and raise public awareness of food safety risks associated with conventional farming practices.
Chaka Ozondu, a Food Systems Analyst, highlighted the health risks associated with prolonged exposure to pesticide-contaminated foods, including neurological disorders, endocrine disruption, and reproductive health issues. He noted that while some identified pesticides are banned in foreign markets, they remain accessible in Ghana, increasing the risk of misuse.
Bismark Nortey, Executive Director of the Peasant Farmers Association of Ghana, stressed the importance of collaboration to achieve food safety. He highlighted the role of the Ghana Agroecology Movement, promoting nature-based farming practices rooted in indigenous knowledge systems. The event brought together stakeholders from various sectors, emphasizing the need for increased farmer education and stronger monitoring systems.