Pesticides
We are committed to the responsible use of pesticides. Our policy is to:
- reduce pesticides in our own-brand food
- reduce chemical pesticide inputs and use natural alternatives wherever possible
- minimise negative environmental impacts and improve biodiversity
- ensure worker health and safety.
Minimising pesticide use
The most effective way to reduce pesticide use is through integrated crop management (ICM) – a system of farming that aims to reduce chemical applications while maintaining productivity and quality.
We pioneered the use of ICM in the 1990s and worked closely with others to help establish standards, including an EU accreditation standard (EUREPGAP) that is used globally by Sainsbury's growers. We now consistently source over 98% by volume from EUREPGAP or equivalently accredited sources.
Testing pesticide residue levels
We use independent laboratories to carry out comprehensive analyses for a wide range of pesticides to ensure the integrity of our own-brand products.
Unlike many other surveys, we specifically target our sampling at products and countries that we consider of greatest risk. This allows us to identify and correct poor practice and ultimately improves the safety of the products we offer customers. Any products found to exceed the maximum residue level (MRL – set by EU law) are removed from our shelves and the source discontinued until we are satisfied with the control measures in place. We are developing plans to ensure we reverse the recent increase in residues above MRL (which have been lowered in recent years).
Results of our tests
Sainsbury's pesticide monitoring results 2004/05 (fresh produce only)
| 1. | No residues | 53% |
| 2. | Residues detected below MRL | 42.5% |
| 3. | Residues detected above MRL | 4.5% |
| 4. | Residues found on organic crops | 0% |
Maximum Residue Level (MRL)
Pesticide residue levels
Government tests
The government's Pesticide Safety Directorate monitors about 4,000 food samples each year for a wide range of pesticides. These tests are not comparable to ours because the government samples are chosen on a different basis. The residue levels are higher in our own tests because we focus on testing high-risk products.
The pie chart shows the overall results of the government monitoring programme for 2003. The results for 2004 will be published in September 2005. See the website www.pesticides.gov.uk for further details of the monitoring programme, including quarterly data.
Government pesticide monitoring results 2003 (fruit and vegetables only)
| 1. | No residues | 67% |
| 2. | Residues detected below MRL | 32% |
| 3. | Residues detected above MRL | 1% |
Maximum Residue Level (MRL)
