Pesticide monitoring in food in Santa Catarina: a bioethical analysis

Abstract

The principles of Bioethics, such as beneficence, non-maleficence, autonomy, and justice, are applied to assess the use of pesticides and to seek safer and more sustainable alternatives. This study aimed to analyze monitoring data on pesticide residues in plant-based foods produced in the state of Santa Catarina, considering the Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) established by the Brazilian Health Regulatory Agency (ANVISA) and possible implications for the "One Health" approach. A total of 562 food samples were collected throughout 2023 by the Integrated Agricultural Development Company of Santa Catarina (CIDASC). The laboratory reports revealed that 9.43% of the samples contained pesticide residues not authorized for the analyzed crops, and 2.92% presented levels above the permitted MRLs, while 76.6% were within the established limits. These findings highlight the importance of public policies that promote the safe and rational use of agricultural pesticides, as well as the strengthening of monitoring, inspection, and health education actions aimed at producers, consumers, and professionals. The adoption of sustainable and integrated practices is essential to protect human health, conserve natural resources, and ensure the quality of food consumed by the population, as advocated by the principles of the "One Health" approach.