AsparagusSeason: OfficialInspectionsConfirmHighQualityAndMinimalResidueContamination
May 15, 2026 - Foods
AsparagusSeason: OfficialInspectionsConfirmHighQualityAndMinimalResidueContamination
With the start of the asparagus season, the Food and Veterinary Institute Oldenburg of the Lower Saxony State Office for Consumer Protection and Food Safety (LAVES) has published current investigation results on pesticide residues. The analyses show an overall very low contamination of the tested products.
Of the total 62 asparagus samples examined in 2025, 60 were free of detectable pesticide residues. Only two samples showed small amounts of residues, which were well below the legally established maximum levels. In one sample from Greece, the insecticide DDT was detected at a concentration of 0.01 mg/kg. Despite the long-standing ban on the persistent active ingredient, traces can still occur in agricultural products. The measured value was well below the permissible maximum content of 0.05 mg/kg. An asparagus from Peru showed slight traces of the insecticide chlorfenapyr, also below the applicable limit. No complaints or exceedances of maximum levels were found.
It is particularly noteworthy that all German samples, including 34 asparagus samples from Lower Saxony, remained residue-free. Additionally, LAVES checked the legality of the plant protection products used in the German products; no irregularities were found here either. The current investigation results thus underscore the high quality of regionally produced seasonal products and the importance of continuous official food monitoring for consumer health protection.
With the start of the season, sampling and thus examinations are now beginning. The results for 2026 are yet to be awaited.
In our Tentamus laboratories, we conduct examinations of pesticide residues in food. We provide you with quick and reliable results and are happy to advise you on all matters concerning product safety. If you have any questions, our customer advisors are happy to assist you.
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