Pesticide residues
Plant protection products
🟡 Several human studies point the same way, with a plausible biological mechanism, but the evidence is not yet conclusive.
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In brief
pesticide residues: this page reviews Pesticide residues (Plant protection products) — documented mechanism, everyday exposure situations and possible alternatives. Level of evidence: Probable.
- Where it's found
- Unwashed fruits and vegetables, certain heavily treated crops (strawberries, grapes, apples), occupational exposure in farming.
- Suspected mechanism
- Several families have hormonal activity; high consumption of heavily treated produce is associated with a lower sperm count.
- Suggested alternative
- Wash and scrub fruits and vegetables; favor organic for a few frequently eaten items rather than everything.
- Source
- EARTH studies (Harvard); ANSES, dietary exposure.
Frequently asked questions
Pesticide residues: how is it linked to infertility?
Several families have hormonal activity; high consumption of heavily treated produce is associated with a lower sperm count.
Where is Pesticide residues found in everyday life?
Unwashed fruits and vegetables, certain heavily treated crops (strawberries, grapes, apples), occupational exposure in farming.
How can exposure to Pesticide residues be reduced?
Wash and scrub fruits and vegetables; favor organic for a few frequently eaten items rather than everything.
What is the level of evidence for Pesticide residues?
Probable. Several human studies point the same way, with a plausible biological mechanism, but the evidence is not yet conclusive.
Map your everyday exposures in about ten minutes.
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Related factors
Including a factor does not mean it causes infertility: it is simply worth monitoring, depending on its level of evidence.
Content last updated: September 14, 2026