Pesticide exceedances detected in imported tomatoes and apples in Northern Cyprus

The Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources reported that during inspections carried out between 12 and 18 September in Northern Cyprus, some food samples were found to exceed permissible pesticide residue limits.

According to the ministry, 63 samples of imported products were taken: 61 samples were clean, while two showed pesticide residues above the allowed limits. Analyses were conducted at the State Laboratory and assessed according to European Union maximum residue levels.

Exceedances were detected in tomatoes belonging to REE Tic. (Cahide Kılıç) and in apples from Onbaşı İşl. Ltd. At the request of the companies, these batches were returned to their countries of origin.

Nine samples of local produce were also taken: 8 were found clean, while one contained an unapproved plant protection product. This was lettuce belonging to Famagusta resident Yummu Deniz; the produce was destroyed.

Thus, according to official data, unsafe batches were either returned or destroyed, preventing their further distribution on the market in Northern Cyprus.