Berlin – German authorities have ordered the withdrawal of a batch of Moroccan peppers from the market after detecting dangerously high levels of pesticide residues. The contaminated produce, imported via Spanish intermediaries, was flagged during routine inspections, according to a report by the specialized agricultural news outlet Horto Info.
Toxic Pesticide Poses Serious Health Risks
The pesticide identified in the peppers is abamectin, a neurotoxic chemical known to cause severe health effects in humans. Exposure can lead to symptoms such as:
- Nervous system depression
- Dilated pupils
- Vomiting
- Hyperexcitability
- Loss of coordination
- Tremors
- Lethargy
- Coma
In extreme cases, high doses can result in respiratory failure and death.
Exceeding Legal Limits
Tests conducted on the imported peppers revealed abamectin concentrations between 0.12 mg/kg (ppm) and 0.29 mg/kg (ppm)—far exceeding the European Union’s maximum residue limit (MRL) of 0.03 mg/kg (ppm).
The discovery prompted Germany to classify the case as a “serious incident” under the Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF), the EU’s food safety watchdog. The system is designed to quickly alert member states about hazardous food products circulating in the market.
How Abamectin Works
Abamectin is an insecticide, acaricide, and anthelmintic that attacks the nervous systems of pests, leading to paralysis and death. It is effective through both contact and ingestion, though its deadliest effects occur when consumed.
- Slow-acting but persistent: The pesticide does not kill pests immediately but causes them to stop feeding before eventually dying.
- Long-lasting residue: It remains active on crops for extended periods, increasing the risk of human exposure.
Human Exposure Risks
Abamectin is classified as highly toxic if:
- Ingested (even in small amounts)
- Inhaled (particularly in aerosol or spray form)
- Absorbed through the skin
Workers handling contaminated produce without proper protection are especially vulnerable.
Implications for Food Safety
This incident raises concerns over supply chain monitoring, particularly with produce entering the EU through third-party distributors. While the peppers originated in Morocco, they reached Germany via Spanish operators, highlighting potential gaps in traceability and pesticide regulation enforcement.
Authorities have not yet disclosed whether the affected batch was distributed beyond Germany or if additional recalls are expected. Consumers are advised to check the origin of produce and report any concerning symptoms to health officials.
Ongoing Investigation
German and EU food safety agencies are investigating whether other shipments may be contaminated. The case underscores the need for stricter import controls and enhanced pesticide testing for agricultural products entering the European market.
