EU-banned pesticides detected in rice, tea, and spices (foodwatch.org)

• 45 of 64 tested products contained residues of EU-banned pesticides.
• All tested paprika, chili, and cumin samples were affected.
• Six of the banned pesticides were exported from EU states in 2024–2025.

"Laboratory tests by foodwatch found residues of EU-banned pesticides in 45 of 64 everyday food products from four EU countries. Substances not approved in the EU are legally exported to third countries and return via imported food, creating a 'toxic pesticides boomerang'. The group calls for stricter import controls and opposes EU deregulation."