Residues of pesticides, heavy metals and antibiotics in

Solution

1. Public Health Impacts (A):  a. Pesticides: Neurotoxicity (e.g., organophosphates)  b. Heavy Metals: • Lead → Developmental delays • Cadmium → Kidney damage  c. Antibiotics: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) 2. Economic Impacts (B):  a. Export rejections (EU rejects 15% Indian food shipments due to residues)  b. Healthcare costs (₹12,000 crore/year in India per WHO estimates)  c. Farmer losses (crop destruction from overuse) 3. Regulatory Framework:  a. FSSAI sets MRLs (Maximum Residue Limits) for 295 pesticides  b. Codex Alimentarius standards govern international trade