A new report from Pesticide Action Network Europe reveals Spanish strawberries are among the least contaminated with pesticides in the European Union.
The study found 88% of strawberries across Europe contain pesticide residues, with 58% contaminated by PFAS or "forever chemicals." More than half of the detected pesticides are among the most hazardous substances authorized in the EU.
Spain's results were significantly better. Testing of conventionally grown Spanish samples detected only two pesticides, both authorized and below legal limits.
Organic strawberry samples from Spain and across Europe were completely free of pesticide residues, reinforcing organic options as the safest choice.
"Spain can and must farm without pesticides," said Kistiñe García, coordinator of the toxic substances group at Ecologistas en Acción.
The report authors argue these findings question the need to relax pesticide regulations and call for stricter enforcement of existing rules.
Researchers also highlight concerning working conditions for women strawberry workers, describing conditions as "semi-slavery" alongside the sector's high water consumption.