Pesticide ban will push food prices up even further
Posted, November 05, 2008 @ 12:00
Brussels, 5th November 2008 -- Consumers are facing higher prices for staple household foods, including a loaf of bread or potatoes, after the European Parliament Environment Committee approved plans to restrict the use of pesticides, said Conservative MEP Robert Sturdy.
The proposals are seen by many as heavy handed which will lead to the disappearance of many substances that have been used safely for years and are needed to protect crops. A study conducted by Cranfield University, found that the proposals supported by MEPs will remove up to 85% of the pesticides, herbicides and fungicides we use.
With fewer products available to protect crops, yields are almost certain to go down, which will have a knock-on affect on food prices and food security. The proposed ban on triazole fungicides for example, could seriously threaten wheat yields and subsequently cause a sharp increase in the price of an everyday loaf of bread.
Mr Sturdy said:
“This legislation threatens already hard pressed consumers who are now even more likely to see their monthly food bill go up. With the current worries over food prices and food security it seems absurd that MEPs are voting on these proposals without the benefit of an impact assessment to make a more informed decision.
"We must have appropriate laws in place to ensure that both human health and the environment are protected from pesticide abuse. However it must be ensured that we do not unnecessarily ban substances that protect crop yields and are safe for consumers.