Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Following media reports in Thailand concerning the safety of Shine Muscat grapes, the Head of Indonesia’s National Food Agency (Bapanas), Arief Prasetyo Adi, has revealed findings from rapid pesticide residue tests conducted on these grapes. Investigations showed no residue within the Shine Muscat grapes, thus making it safe for consumption.
According to Arief, tests conducted on 350 grape samples showed that 90% were free from pesticide residues, while 10% contained pesticide traces. However, these traces were found to be well below the maximum residue limit. The testing was conducted in collaboration with the Provincial Food Affairs Office, which serves as the Regional Food Safety Authority (OKKPD).
“Based on the rapid test results for pesticide residue on 350 samples of Shine Muscat grapes conducted by the Regional Food Affairs Office, it was found that 90% of the samples were negative for pesticide residues, and 10% tested positive, though with low levels below the maximum residue limit,” Arief stated at a press conference held at the Bapanas office in South Jakarta on Monday, November 4, 2024.
Further laboratory analysis was conducted to screen for 240 pesticide residue compounds. The results indicated that 219 compounds tested negative, while 21 compounds contained detectable pesticide residues that were still within safe limits.
“We also conducted laboratory tests on 240 pesticide residue compounds in these grapes, and the results showed 219 negative and 21 with detectable pesticide residues, but all were far below the maximum residue limit,” Arief added.
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Arief also emphasized that none of the samples contained hazardous substances, such as chlorpyrifos, as had been speculated in reports from Thailand. However, he assured that Bapanas would take firm action in line with standard procedures if any unsafe products were discovered in the market.
“If any unsafe products are found, we will issue warnings to businesses and recall these products to prevent potential public health impacts,” Arief asserted.
Arief also advised the public to thoroughly wash grapes before consumption, highlighting that this precautionary step helps reduce any potential pesticide residue or contaminants that may remain on the fruit’s surface.
“First and foremost, washing grapes before consumption is crucial. This action significantly reduces the risk of any residual pesticide or other contaminants that may linger on the fruit’s surface, as grapes are typically consumed without peeling,” he concluded.
(Raidi/Agung)
