No evidence of cadmium in Bolivian avocados

Bolivia has assured consumers that no avocados contaminated with cadmium are being sold in the country. Authorities also announced tighter border checks to prevent any possible entry of fruit that does not meet food safety standards.

Carlos Salas, head of the National Service of Agricultural Health and Food Safety (Senasag), explained that there is no scientific evidence of contaminated avocados in Bolivia’s markets. He urged citizens and the press to rely on official information to avoid spreading misinformation.

The issue began in the European Union, where a shipment of Hass avocados from Peru was rejected after tests showed cadmium levels slightly above the EU’s strict limit (0.054 mg/kg versus the permitted 0.05 mg/kg). Though the excess was minimal, European protocols triggered a health alert, sparking debate about the quality of Peruvian exports and the risks of heavy metal contamination in crops.

In response, Senasag immediately ordered new measures at national checkpoints and reinforced monitoring by the Plant Health and Food Safety division. These actions aim to protect Bolivian consumers and maintain confidence in agricultural products sold domestically.

source: correodelsur.com

photo: producereport.com