Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) has warned against the consumption of agricultural products irrigated with untreated wastewater. It called for strict control to prevent the infiltration of such produce until thorough tests confirming they are free of contaminants are complete.
Researcher Dr Mohammad Al-Bahouh noted the most prominent danger lies in leafy crops that absorb bacteria and heavy minerals without it affecting the smell or shape on the outside, saying the rate of serious illnesses at present is due to the presence of contaminants in crops.
He added KISR has conducted several researches in this field and examined different samples of imported vegetables and fruits, and found in some produce large quantities of internationally banned pesticides, while some fruits contained higher percentages of pesticides than authorised by World Health Organisation.
He urged consumers to take caution when eating fruits and vegetables, and advised washing them thoroughly with water while putting the leafy vegetables in vinegar for few minutes. He also recommended examining fruits from the inside before consumption to see if there is any change in their shape or taste.
Source: arabtimesonline.com
