Cyprus, Nicosia

Excessive pesticides found in fruits and vegetables in Northern Cyprus

13.03.2026 / 20:25
News Category

During weekly food inspections in Northern Cyprus, excessive pesticide levels were discovered in several types of fruits and vegetables.

According to the Ministry of Agriculture, samples of imported and local produce were sent to the state laboratory between March 6 and 12. The analyses were conducted according to EU standards.

Out of 33 samples of imported products, 31 were found to be clean. However, two batches of imported pears from Ankara showed pesticide levels above the permitted limit—the products were destroyed.

Among 30 samples of local produce, violations were found in chard and parsley, where banned plant protection chemicals were detected—these batches were also destroyed.

Additionally, cherry tomatoes, eggplants, and sweet peppers were found to exceed permitted pesticide levels. Their harvesting has been temporarily suspended pending a follow-up laboratory analysis.

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