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May 11, 2026 - Foods
Pesticide residues in strawberries
Summer is strawberry season. However, these popular fruits are repeatedly the focus of food monitoring. In 2025, the Chemical and Veterinary Investigation Office Stuttgart (CVUA) conducted tests on a total of 65 fresh, conventional strawberry samples for pesticide residues. Both strawberries from Germany and from other European countries were closely examined.
The results show that only 1.5% of the samples exceeded the legal maximum levels for pesticide residues. However, only two of the conventional samples were completely free of residues. Since organic strawberry farming in Germany accounts for only a small share, a representative evaluation for these products was not possible. Nevertheless, the examined organic samples did not show any residues of plant protection products.
Fungicides are most commonly used in strawberry cultivation. They protect the fruits from diseases such as powdery mildew or fruit rot. Due to the wetter climate in Germany, more fungicides are generally used compared to countries like Spain. This is also reflected in a slightly higher average pesticide content in German strawberries compared to those from other EU countries.
BAV Institut supports companies with comprehensive analyses in the field of food safety. These include, in addition to microbiological tests, residue analyses to ensure compliance with legal requirements and minimize risks along the supply chain.
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