Pesticide Exposure in Agricultural Production Poses a Global Threat

September 10, 2026 · akdenizmanset.com.tr

International research reveals over 400 million agricultural workers worldwide are exposed to acute pesticide poisoning annually, while Turkey aims to reduce chemical risks through pre-harvest inspections and biological control.

Global Pesticide Threat and Poisonings

An international study published in September 2026 has revealed the devastating effects of chemical pesticides used in agricultural production on human health. According to the data released, approximately 46% of the 934 million producers and workers in the agricultural sector worldwide, corresponding to 402 to 433 million people, suffer from involuntary acute poisoning each year. The research findings indicate that the annual death toll related to pesticide exposure is around 11,000.

Agricultural Environment and Exposure Risks

The use of chemical pesticides carries environmental consequences too broad to be considered solely on the criterion of agricultural productivity. Health risks are rapidly increasing due to farmers not using protective equipment, exceeding recommended dosages, not adhering to harvest intervals, and choosing unregistered products. These incorrect practices directly pollute the soil, groundwater, air, and the biological diversity within the ecosystem, fundamentally undermining agricultural sustainability.

Plant Health Registration System in Turkey

To monitor exposure risks, the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry operates a Poisoning Module within the Plant Health Registration System. Within the scope of the Ministry's 2025 Plant Health Application Program, human and animal poisonings resulting from pesticides used in plant production are officially recorded. Simultaneously, annual pesticide consumption amounts are regularly compiled to ensure transparent monitoring of occupational exposure.

Pre-Harvest Inspections and Sanctions

According to the Ministry's 2025 budget presentation, risk-based pre-harvest inspections covering 55 products in 81 provinces are ongoing without interruption. In the last three years, the number of inspections increased by 40% to 246,946, while residue rates decreased by 35% and European Union RASFF notifications dropped by 54%. In Trabzon, faulty usage was determined in 7 out of 40 samples examined in 2025, resulting in fines of 147,042 Turkish Lira imposed on producers.

Integrated and Biological Control Measures

Alternative agricultural control methods continue to be supported to limit chemical use. According to data from the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, the area under integrated pest management has increased from 0.28 million decares to 4.6 million decares, and the use of 223 active substances has been completely banned. In Istanbul, biotechnical control was expanded by distributing thousands of blue and yellow sticky traps to 785 greenhouse producers.

Sustainable Agriculture and Producer Training

Permanently resolving pesticide-related risks appears possible not only through punitive measures but also by offering producers economic and viable alternatives. Early warning systems, biological control support, and the use of protective equipment form the foundation of a reliable food chain. It is clearly understood that no agricultural model that does not guarantee the health of the farmer in the field can fully provide reliable and healthy food to the consumer.

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