EU issues alert on Moroccan melons exceeding pesticide limits

The European Union’s Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF) has issued an alert after residues of the pesticide chlorpyrifos were detected above permitted levels in Moroccan melons, according to Spanish media sources.

Spanish border control authorities analyzed the melons' pesticide composition and «sent the notification to the European Organization», triggering the alert «so that each competent department can take appropriate measures».

The alert highlights a potential serious health risk, as the detected levels exceed the maximum permissible limit of 0.01 mg/kg for chlorpyrifos. This organophosphate insecticide is commonly used in agriculture to control ticks, livestock pests, and crop infestations.