Pesticide exceedances found in imported apples, grapes, and local cucumbers in Northern Cyprus

During weekly food inspections conducted by the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources of Northern Cyprus, several fruits and vegetables were found to have exceedances of permitted plant protection substances.

According to the ministry's report, from October 24 to 30, specialists tested samples of imported and local products, analyzed at the State Laboratory and assessed according to European Union standards.

Out of 53 samples of imported products, 51 were found safe, but in two cases, pesticide levels exceeded the maximum allowable limits.

A batch of Gala apples belonging to Koçak Gıda was destroyed, and grapes imported by SVS Tic. Ltd. Şti. were returned to the supplier at the company's request.

Among 8 local vegetable samples, six passed the inspection successfully, while two contained pesticide residues above the limit.

Specifically, cucumbers from a farmer in Famagusta were found to exceed the limit twice. The ministry ordered the harvest to be suspended until results of a repeated laboratory analysis were obtained.

The ministry emphasized that inspections are conducted regularly and aim to ensure the safety of products entering the domestic market.