Potential health risks associated with pesticide residues from tomato in Tanzania

Abstract

Tomato contributes the highest percent to the fruit and vegetables consumed in Tanzania. Its high
consumption is attributed to the presence of bioactive compounds and vitamins known to prevent non
communicable diseases. Pesticides used to control pests and diseases cause direct accumulation of
pesticide residues in food. Consumption of pesticide contaminated tomato increases the risk of
pesticide exposure. This review is on types of pesticides used in tomato production, health effects of
pesticides, levels of pesticide residues in tomatoes, dietary pesticide exposure, awareness on
pesticides effects and preventive measures as well as policies governing pesticide use in Tanzania.
Clearly, there is evidence of extensive use of pesticides in tomato production, limited knowledge
regarding pesticide use, as well as weak regulatory framework for pesticide use. Importantly, levels of
pesticide residues in tomatoes consumed in Tanzania exceed the recommended maximum residual
limits. In order to assure pesticide safety of food, there is a need to identify and control farmers'
practices which are highly associated with pesticide contamination in tomatoes.
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