Last Updated on January 2, 2024 by Shabnam Sengupta
Quick Take
A video shared on Facebook alleges that soaking rocket leaves in a certain chemical solution can rejuvenate withered herbs. We fact-checked and found the claim to be False.
The Claim
The video under the account of Rakesh Gupta incorrectly claimed that chlorpyrifos and cypermethrin were the chemicals used to revive wilted rocket leaves when soaked in them.
*Don’t know what chemical this is? But imagine the power of this chemical and how it is affecting even withered dry vegetables! These vegetables are sold fresh in the markets. No matter how much we wash this chemical, when it is absorbed by the vegetables and when we cook and eat it, how much harm will it cause to our bodies? Watch this video and tell everyone you know. *Chemical name “Chlorpyrifos, Cypermethrin” is very dangerous for liver and kidney functions.
Fact Check
Can a combination of chemicals make vegetables fresh?
The names of the chemicals were given in the caption of the post. While fact-checking, we came to know that chlorpyrifos and cypermethrin are both chemical pesticides and their primary purpose is to control pests and insects that may damage plants, including herbs. They are not intended for use as a means to ‘revive’ herbs or any other plants. Using these chemicals on herbs or any other vegetation that is not affected by pests can be harmful and counterproductive.
Can chlorpyrifos chemical kill humans?
Yes, chlorpyrifos can be toxic to humans and has the potential to be lethal, especially when ingested in large amounts or in cases of severe exposure. It is an organophosphate insecticide that affects the nervous system. Acute poisoning with chlorpyrifos can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle tremors, difficulty breathing, and, in extreme cases, seizures, paralysis, and death.
Can cypermethrin chemical kill humans?
Yes, cypermethrin is a synthetic pyrethroid insecticide commonly used in agriculture and household pest control. While it is generally considered less toxic to humans than some other pesticides, it can still be harmful if not used properly.
In humans, exposure to cypermethrin can lead to a range of symptoms, including skin and eye irritation, headache, dizziness, nausea, and in some cases, more severe symptoms such as respiratory distress and neurological effects like muscle twitching or seizures. In extremely rare cases of very high exposure, cypermethrin can be fatal.
How to minimise pesticide/insecticide exposure while consuming vegetables?
The effectiveness of reducing pesticide residues relies on factors such as the washing methods employed, the chemical structure of the pesticide, and additional preparatory steps taken.
- Washing with Water: Rinsing fruits and vegetables with water can effectively remove pesticide residues, depending on the type of pesticide and the duration of washing.
- Peeling: Peeling fruits and vegetables can significantly reduce pesticide residues, but it may also remove some nutrients and fiber.
- Organic Solutions: Some studies have shown that washing with organic solutions, such as saltwater or baking soda, can be effective in reducing pesticide residues.
- Chemical Solutions: Washing with chemical solutions, like chlorine or hydrogen peroxide, can also help remove pesticide residues, but care should be taken to ensure food safety.
- Kitchen Processing: Various kitchen processes, such as cooking, blanching, and frying, can reduce pesticide residues in food. Cooking, in particular, can be effective in breaking down pesticide residues.
- Peeling Skin: Removing the skin from fruits and vegetables can be an efficient way to eliminate pesticide residues, but it may also remove some nutritional content.
- Combination Processing: Using a combination of methods, such as washing, peeling, and cooking, can further reduce pesticide residues and enhance food safety.
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