This week's headlines about pesticide testing have many of us looking twice at the fruit bowl. Here's a calm look at what was found and a few easy, practical things you can do.
What Was Found
Australia's Residue Report 2026, by Pesticide Action Australia, tested 78 samples of fresh produce bought from major supermarkets in five cities. It reported 201 pesticide residues across 54 different pesticides. Four samples, from grapes, strawberries and capsicums, were over the legal limit, and 56% contained a pesticide that isn't approved in the EU.
Should You Panic?
No. This was a snapshot of 78 samples. The regulator (APVMA) explains that the legal limit is a compliance tool, not a safety threshold. Fruit and veg are still some of the best things you can eat, so keep eating them. It's simply a good reason to be a bit choosier.
Option 1: A Plant-Based Fruit and Veg Wash
The easiest option: add a squirt to a sink of water, soak, then rinse. Our range includes Koala Eco All Natural Fruit and Vegetable Wash, EnviroClean Fruit and Vegetable Wash and Abode Fruit and Vegetable Wash. You can browse more in our Eco-Cleaners collection.
Option 2: The Budget Bicarb Soak
Prefer a pantry hack? Stir 1 teaspoon of bicarb into 2 cups of water, soak your produce for 12 to 15 minutes, then rinse well. A 2017 University of Massachusetts study found a baking soda soak removed more surface residue than plain water, though it can't reach residues absorbed into the produce. Try Organic Times Bi-Carb Soda or Chef's Choice Pure Multi-Purpose Bi-Carb Soda, which also work for baking and cleaning.
Option 3: Shop Organic
Certified organic fruit and veg is grown without synthetic pesticides, so it typically carries far fewer residues. For longer shelf-life pantry options, we offer a wide range of canned organic staples, such as Chef's Choice Certified Organic Diced Tomatoes and Chef's Choice Organic Chickpeas.
FAQ
Should I be worried about pesticide residues on fruit and veg?
There's no need to panic. The report was a snapshot of 78 samples, and the regulator says legal limits are a compliance tool rather than a safety threshold. Fruit and veg remain some of the best foods you can eat.
Does a bicarb soak remove pesticide residue?
Research suggests a bicarb soak removes more surface residue than plain water, but it can't remove residues absorbed into the produce.
How do I make a bicarb soak for fruit and veg?
Stir 1 teaspoon of bicarb soda into 2 cups of water, soak the produce for 12 to 15 minutes, then rinse well.
Do I need to buy organic?
No, but certified organic produce is grown without synthetic pesticides, so it typically carries far fewer residues. Many people choose it for items eaten with the skin on.
This article is general information only and isn't a substitute for professional advice.
References
- Pesticide Action Australia, Australia's Residue Report 2026, as reported by News24 and Kids News
- Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA), apvma.gov.au
- Yang T. et al., "Effectiveness of commercial and homemade washing agents in removing pesticide residues on and in apples," Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 2017 (University of Massachusetts Amherst)