Strawberries grown in Spain rank among the least contaminated with pesticide residues in the European Union, according to a new study by environmental organizations PAN Europe and Ecologistas en Acción, which examined strawberry samples from 11 European countries.
The report found that 88 percent of strawberries tested across Europe contained pesticide residues, highlighting the continued presence of agricultural chemicals in one of the continent’s most popular fruits. Researchers also reported that 58 percent of the samples contained PFAS, commonly known as “forever chemicals,” which are associated with long-term environmental persistence and potential health concerns.
The study said more than half of the pesticides detected belonged to a category of substances considered among the most hazardous still authorized in the European Union. These chemicals have been identified as candidates for substitution under EU regulations, with plans for their gradual replacement dating back to 2011.
Spanish strawberries, however, performed significantly better than the European average. Researchers analyzed two conventionally grown strawberry samples from Spain and found pesticide residues in only one of them. The sample contained two pesticides, both approved for use under EU rules and present at levels below the legal safety limits.
The findings also highlighted the performance of organic farming. According to the report, every organic strawberry sample tested across all participating countries, including Spain, was free of detectable pesticide residues.
Environmental groups behind the research said the results demonstrate that reducing pesticide use is achievable without compromising fruit production. Kistiñe García, coordinator of the toxic substances group at Ecologistas en Acción, said the findings show that organic strawberries are free from pesticide contamination and that many conventionally grown strawberries in Spain also contain little or no detectable residues.
The organizations argue that the results strengthen the case for maintaining and enforcing existing European pesticide regulations rather than easing restrictions. They called on policymakers to apply current rules more rigorously and continue efforts to phase out hazardous substances.
Beyond pesticide use, the report also raised broader concerns about strawberry production. Ecologistas en Acción pointed to the intensive use of water in strawberry farming, particularly in regions where water resources are under pressure.
The organization also highlighted labor conditions within parts of the strawberry industry. Koldo Hernández, the group’s water coordinator, criticized the treatment of some women employed in the sector, describing their working conditions as exploitative and calling for greater attention to labor rights alongside environmental standards.
The study adds to the ongoing debate across Europe over sustainable farming practices, food safety and environmental protection. While the report paints a comparatively positive picture of Spanish strawberries, it also suggests there is room for further reductions in pesticide use across the agricultural sector.
Researchers said continued support for sustainable farming methods, combined with strict enforcement of existing regulations, could help reduce consumers’ exposure to pesticide residues while addressing wider environmental and social challenges linked to food production.
