The Styria’s Association of Fruit Growers in Austria state quite clearly: “The recent reports made by Greenpeace about pesticide residues on European apples are unfounded and scaremongering. The fact is that all the values are clearly under the European Maximum Residue Level, MRL. Thus all investigated apples meet the strict requirements of the EU Commission. These limits decided after extensive studies with a hundred-fold safety, thus guaranteeing absolutely safe food."
“With the current sensitive analysis possibilities the smallest traces of residue can be detected, which have absolutely no influence on the health of people according to scientific research. In other words: If chemical substances are used in the production these chemicals will be found, on organic produce as well as conventional produce. And if the residues are clearly below the European maximum residue level than the products are completely safe. And it should not be used to incite fear and insecurity,” stated Rupert Gsöls and Wolfgang Mazelle of Styria’s Association of Fruit Growers.
Fruit production in Styria is strictly controlled and safe
“Fruit production in Styria belongs to the strictest controlled agricultural sectors in Europe, the strict policies, complete transparency of all steps in the production processes, clearly documented and checked by independent inspections is the standard. The use of pesticides is sparse, based on damage and only when absolutely necessary. Modern techniques for application ensure the best protection of the environment and soil," says Mazelle.
“We invite all interested parties to have a look for themselves, at the farms or through the comprehensive and transparent documentation, of our honest, sustainable and consumer-focused production. Austrian fruit is valuable and very important for a healthy and balanced diet. It can safely be consumed with pleasure and enjoyment,” states the chairman. He strongly protests against “statements that attack this top product of the Austrian agriculture with statements such as ‘agricultural poison in apples’ that cause unfounded insecurity for consumers.”