Navigating the Future of Food Security: The Dual Role of Pesticides in Modern Agriculture and Environmental Health

Title

Navigating the Future of Food Security: The Dual Role of Pesticides in Modern Agriculture and Environmental Health

Author

1. Sani Matilda, Student, Federal College of Agriculture Akure, Nigeria

Abstract

The global increase in pesticide use is linked to the rising demand for food brought on by population expansion, particularly in developing countries in Asia, Africa, Central America, and South America. Pesticides have increased agricultural productivity, preserved crop quality, and ensured a steady food supply. Despite these benefits, decades of ongoing production and usage of pesticides have led to grave concerns about the damaging effects these chemicals have on the environment and human health, especially when ingested into dietary chains. Scientists from all around the globe have looked at the usage of pesticides and food product contamination to address these issues. This summary covers research from the past and present on pesticide usage, pesticide accumulation in food, and reduction strategies that scholars have studied and reported throughout the years. Monitoring residual pesticide levels in soil crops, fruits, vegetables, and animal products is critically needed in developing nations to ensure they stay below Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs).

 

Keywords

Conclusion

Pesticide production has risen due to the expansion and evolution of agricultural operations in response to the growing global population. The pressing need to feed an ever-increasing population is the leading cause of this increase. Because they are so inexpensive, several pesticides are still in use, even if they are prohibited due to their toxicity. Because pesticides are widely used and often used without proper knowledge, they have unintentionally entered the food chain. They are now impacting the crops and the people who eat them.

It is necessary to use care while applying pesticides on farms and when ingesting possibly contaminated goods due to the severe health hazards linked with their intake. To protect the public's health and maintain sustainable agricultural practices, there is an urgent need for increased understanding and appropriate pesticide use methods.

 

Author Contrubution

The author confirms sole responsibility for the following: study conception and design, data collection, analysis and interpretation of results, and manuscript preparation.

Funding

The authors did not receive any specific grants from funding agencies in the public, commercial, or non-profit sectors for the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Conflict of Interest

All authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest.

Data Sharing Statement

Not applicable

Software And Tools Use

Not applicable

Acknowledgements

I thank the following individuals for their expertise and assistance in all aspects of our study and for their help in writing the manuscript. I am also grateful for the insightful comments given by anonymous peer reviewers. Everyone's generosity and expertise have improved this study in myriad ways and saved me from many errors.