Agricultural practices and food security

Agricultural practices and food security

agricultural practices and food safety

Agricultural practices play a crucial role in food safety. In this article we will examine various aspects of agriculture and its effects on the safety of food. We will deal with the practices of conventional agriculture, ecological agriculture and the challenges of food safety.

conventional agriculture

Conventional agriculture is most widespread worldwide. It is based on the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides and chemical fertilizers to increase the yields. These practices enable high crop yields and efficient management from the farmer's point of view. However, they also bring certain risks with them that can affect food safety.

pesticides and herbicides

Conventional farmers use pesticides and herbicides to combat pests and weeds and protect the harvest from damage. However, these chemical agents can leave residues on the food. The use of pesticides was associated with various health problems, including cancer, impairment of the endocrine system and neurological disorders. These residues can also influence the ecological balance and endanger biodiversity.

chemical fertilizers

Chemical fertilizers are used to supply the plants the nutrients they need to promote healthy growth. However, the excessive use of these fertilizers can lead to over -fertilization of the floors, which has a negative impact on the soil quality and favors the penetration of toxins into the groundwater.

ecological agriculture

Ecological agriculture is an alternative extension based on sustainable and environmentally friendly principles. It aims to reduce the effects of conventional agriculture on the environment and to ensure food safety. Ecological agriculture does not use synthetic pesticides and herbicides as well as chemical fertilizers.

natural methods for pest control

Ecological agriculture relies on natural pest control methods such as the use of beneficials and plant variety. Users such as ladybugs and spiders can combat pests, while a variety of plant species and varieties reduce the risk of pest infestation.

Organic fertilizers

Instead of chemical fertilizers, organic fertilizers such as manure, compost and green manure are used in ecological agriculture. These fertilizers offer the plants the necessary nutrients naturally and contribute to improving the soil quality.

Challenges of food safety

Despite the various agricultural practices, there are a number of challenges with which food safety is confronted.

residues of veterinary medicines

Veterinary medicinal products are often used in animal husbandry to treat or prevent diseases. These medicines can leave residues in the meat or in animal products and pose health risks for the consumer when using improperly.

antibiotic resistance

The excessive use of antibiotics in animal husbandry has led to the development of antibiotic resistant bacterial strains. If these resistant bacteria get into the food chain, you can endanger human health and reduce the effectiveness of antibiotics in the treatment of infections.

food contamination

Food can be contaminated throughout the entire production and processing process. This can be done by improper handling, poor hygiene practices or contamination of environmental sources such as water. Contaminated foods can lead to food poisoning and other diseases.

Measures to ensure food safety

In order to ensure food safety, a number of measures that can be implemented by agricultural companies, authorities and consumers were developed.

good agricultural practices

Compliance with good agricultural practices is crucial to reduce the risk of contamination. This includes the training of farmers in the areas of hygiene, plant and animal health and the proper disposal of waste.

ban on certain pesticides and herbicides

The regulation of certain pesticides and herbicides can help reduce the exposure of consumers and the environment to potentially harmful chemicals. Some countries have already taken measures to limit or ban the use of certain pesticides.

monitoring and inspection

Regular monitoring and inspections of agricultural companies, processing systems and food sales channels can help to identify and prevent contamination at an early stage. Authorities should also ensure that compliance with standards and regulations is enforced.

sensitization of consumers

The sensitization of consumers is another important factor for food safety. Consumers should be informed about the importance of risk awareness, appropriate food hygiene and the correct use of food.

FAZIT

Agricultural practices have a direct impact on food safety. Both conventional and ecological agriculture offer advantages and disadvantages in relation to the use of pesticides, herbicides and chemical fertilizers. The challenges of food safety, such as residues of veterinary medicines, antibiotic resistance and food contamination, require extensive measures by farmers, authorities and consumers to ensure the safety of food. By compliance with good agricultural practices, the ban on certain chemicals, regular monitoring and inspections as well as the sensitization of consumers, we can help together to produce safe and healthy foods.

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