USDA releases 2020 Pesticide Data Program annual summary

Less than 1% of fruits and vegetables tested by the USDA show pesticide residue levels outside permitted ranges.

The 2020 Pesticide Data Program Annual Summary reveals that more than 99% of the samples tested had pesticide residues below benchmark levels established by the Environmental Protection Agency, according to a summary from the agency.

The 2020 report, available online, marks the 30th year of PDP results. For 2020, the agency said tests were conducted on 9,600 samples from 18 commodities of fresh and processed fruits and vegetables. The USDA works with cooperating state agencies to collect and analyze pesticide residue levels on the selected food commodities, the agency said.

The EPA relies on PDP data to conduct dietary risk assessments and to ensure that any pesticide residues in foods remain at or below levels the EPA has set, according to the USDA. 

The annual pesticide residue results are reported to the FDA and EPA in monthly reports, as testing takes place throughout the year, and the agencies are immediately notified if a PDP test discovers residue levels that could pose a public safety concern, according to the summary.

The Alliance for Food and Farming said in a statement that the USDA's PDP report should reassure consumers that they can enjoy their favorite fruits and vegetables and "purchase whatever forms are most accessible and affordable for themselves and their families."