Pesticide and 'Forever Chemical' Residues Found on Australian Supermarket Produce

Traces of pesticides, including chemicals linked to health concerns, have been detected on fruit and vegetables sold at major Australian supermarkets, according to a new report. The Pesticide Action Australia (PAA) Residue Report 2026 tested 13 varieties of produce purchased from Coles, Woolworths, and Aldi stores across five major cities in June.

The analysis found 201 residue detections across 78 samples, representing 54 different pesticides. The report also noted that approximately 44% of tested samples contained at least one PFAS chemical, commonly known as 'forever chemicals,' which have been associated with health issues such as certain cancers and elevated cholesterol levels.

Eleanor Davis, project lead at PAA, stated that Australia approves hazardous pesticides that are banned in other countries and that the government is not adequately testing for residues. "As a result, more hazardous pesticides are ending up on our plates," Davis told news.com.au. "For many Australian kids, food is the main way they're exposed to pesticides."

The PAA report highlighted discrepancies between Australian and international regulations, asserting that 60% of the most heavily used pesticides in Australia are banned in the European Union. Neonicotinoids, a class of pesticides restricted in some overseas jurisdictions due to environmental and potential health concerns, were found in 14% of the samples. These chemicals are banned in the EU.

Furthermore, the PAA reported that residue from four pesticides exceeded the maximum levels permitted by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA), with detections found in grape and strawberry samples. The analysis also identified five types of organophosphate pesticides, known for their potential impact on the nervous system.

The APVMA acknowledged awareness of the PAA report, with a spokesperson stating that any suspected Maximum Residue Limit (MRL) violations should be reported to state or territory authorities for investigation. These authorities are responsible for determining the origin of the food and ensuring approved use patterns were followed for Australian produce.

This comes after PAA criticized the APVMA in June for allowing restricted use of paraquat, and again in July over proposed higher residue limits for isocycloseram on berries, a pesticide not approved for use in the EU.

Davis emphasized that shoppers facing cost-of-living pressures should not have to pay more to avoid chemicals in their food, and that the current food system makes it difficult for farmers to transition away from chemical use. She urged supermarkets to support farmers in adopting nature-friendly farming practices.

Coles, Woolworths, and Aldi all issued statements affirming their adherence to Australian laws for fresh produce. A Coles spokesperson stated that food safety is a top priority and that suppliers must meet strict requirements, with the supermarket conducting its own regular testing. Aldi noted that its suppliers meet recognized food safety standards and that the company conducts surveillance testing. Woolworths indicated it follows stringent food safety standards and collaborates with regulators to ensure produce integrity, including independent audits of suppliers under the Harmonised Australian Retailer Produce Scheme.