In today’s world, where the demand for fresh and healthy produce is on the rise, the use of artificial medication in fruits and vegetables has become a topic of debate. Artificial medication is the process of using certain chemicals to speed up the natural ripening process of fruits and vegetables so that they can be sold at the market earlier or kept for longer periods of time. While these methods have undoubtedly contributed to increased agricultural yields and the availability of produce, there are both pros and cons to their usage in fruits and vegetables.
The use of artificial medication in fruits and vegetables has raised concerns about its impact on the environment. Pesticides and herbicides can accumulate in soil, water, and air, leading to contamination of the environment and harming non-target species such as beneficial insects, birds, and animals. Moreover, excessive use of fertilisers can cause nutrient runoff, leading to water pollution and eutrophication in nearby water bodies. This can disrupt the balance of ecosystems and have long-term detrimental effects on the environment. There are also concerns about the potential health risks associated with the consumption of fruits and vegetables treated with artificial medication. Pesticides and herbicides are chemicals that can leave residues on crops that may be ingested by consumers upon consumption. Some studies have linked exposure to pesticide residues in food with various health issues, including cancer, reproductive problems, and neurodevelopmental disorders. While regulatory agencies set safety standards for pesticide residues in food, the cumulative effects of long-term exposure to these residues are still the subject of ongoing research and debate.
Another drawback of artificial medication in fruits and vegetables is the development of pesticide resistance in pests and diseases. Over time, pests and diseases can evolve and adapt to the chemicals used in pesticides and herbicides, rendering them less effective. This can result in increased use of higher doses or multiple types of chemicals, which can further contribute to environmental pollution and health risks. Additionally, the increased use of pesticides and herbicides can disrupt natural predator-prey relationships and lead to the emergence of secondary pests, creating a vicious cycle of chemical dependence in agriculture. One commonly used chemical for this purpose is ethylene gas. Ethylene is a naturally occurring gas that fruits and vegetables produce as they ripen. When artificially applied to unripe produce, it can speed up the ripening process by triggering the production of additional ethylene gas.
Pesticides are used to kill insects, weeds, and other pests that can harm crops. However, some pesticides are toxic and can have harmful effects on human health. Exposure to pesticides has been linked to a range of health problems, including cancer, developmental disorders, and neurological problems. While herbicides are used to control or kill weeds, they can also have harmful effects on human health. Exposure to herbicides has been linked to cancer, birth defects, and other health problems. Fertilisers are used to provide plants with nutrients. However, excessive use of fertilisers can lead to the contamination of soil and water. This can result in the buildup of toxic substances in crops, which can be harmful to human health.
However, there are also other chemicals used for artificial ripening, such as calcium carbide, which is not recommended as it can be hazardous to human health.
The use of artificial medication in fruits and vegetables can also have an adverse impact on biodiversity. Pesticides and herbicides can harm non-target species, including beneficial insects, and affect the flavour and nutritional content of the produce. They may also pose health risks to consumers if harmful chemicals are used. Artificial medication in fruits and vegetables can reduce losses due to pests and diseases. Pests and diseases can cause significant damage to crops, resulting in financial losses for farmers. By using pesticides and herbicides, farmers can protect their crops from these threats and minimise losses. This can help ensure a stable income for farmers and prevent food shortages due to crop losses.
To reduce the risk of exposure to these chemicals, it is important to wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before consuming them. Buying organic produce is also a good way to minimise exposure to these harmful substances. Organic farming practises typically use natural methods to control pests and weeds and do not rely on synthetic pesticides or fertilisers.