Debunking the Most Common and Absurd Pesticide Myths That Exist Today

In 2021, 1.4 billion tons of food went to waste. Out of this large number, 16% of this waste came directly from farms. And as food insecurity increases, the farming industry is hoping that the use of pesticides becomes normalized. However, common pesticide myths make it hard for farmers to use this great product.

Although, pesticides are proven to safely extend produce life. So if you would like to learn the truth about pesticides, keep reading our article where we debunk common myths!

1. Pesticides Are Unsafe

The myth that pesticides are unsafe is incorrect. The United States heavily regulates the production and usage of different types of pesticides.

And before any pesticides go into the agriculture industry, they must be researched and tested. Some of the best pesticides don’t hit the market for at least ten years.

Both synthetic and organic pesticides are well tested to ensure the safety of the consumers and environment. And it doesn’t stop there! The United States will make sure that these pesticides remain safe over many years.

2. Pesticides Are Bad for the Environment

Many people think that pesticides are bad for the environment—but more especially for biodiversity. But the truth is, pesticides allow farmers to grow crops without using massive amounts of land.

In fact, without pesticides, farmers would need to use more land to grow an average amount of crops. Therefore, pesticide allows farmers to get more out of their land– while allowing wildlife to thrive and grow in untouched areas.

3. Pesticides Are Harmful To Consume

Trace amounts of pesticide are not harmful to consume. An average person would need to eat over 20,000 strawberries every day, over a long period, to experience any side effects.

But as the agriculture industry grows, there are nearly zero traces of pesticides in our foods. Nevertheless, some companies still manufacture foods with trace amounts of pesticide. Luckily, there are limits to how much pesticide can be left in produce.

4. Pesticides Are Only Used To Increase Profits

This myth is very popular among food and environmental activist. In reality, farmers do not benefit from using pesticides. Only consumers benefit from pesticides.

Pesticides allow farmers to mass-produce. Therefore, foods can cost less. Without pesticides, food prices would increase, and this would affect consumers.

5. There Is No Need for Pesticides

Some say that there is no need for pesticides. But pesticides like the Marrone Bio Pacesetter can help prevent diseases and insect infestations.
So not using pesticides could lower food productivity, which in turn causes food shortages.

Without pesticides, we could stand to lose half of our crops to pests and diseases. So not only do pesticides protect against ailments, but they could also end world hunger.

Pesticides Are the Future of Agriculture

Overall, pesticides are helpful for the health of consumers and the environment. They can also help lower food scarcity. So using these agricultural technologies is a must, not a desire.

Don’t forget to explore the rest of our website, where you can learn more about an array of topics– from agriculture to technological advances!