Hormone-Disrupting Fungicides Found on Most Citrus Fruit Samples
Tests commissioned by EWG in 2020 found the two hormone-disrupting fungicides, imazalil and thiabendazole, on nearly 90 percent of non-organic citrus fruit samples. More than half the samples contained both fungicides.
Both chemicals disrupt the body’s hormones, or endocrine system, which regulates metabolism, growth and development, and other important functions. They can also harm the reproductive system, and California classifies imazalil as a chemical known to cause cancer.
In January and July 2020, EWG scientists purchased and peeled 25 samples of conventionally grown grapefruit, lemons, mandarins and oranges. The edible portion of the fruit was tested for pesticide residues by an independent laboratory accredited by California.
The highest levels of imazalil and thiabendazole were found on mandarins, including clementines, followed by oranges and then grapefruit. Organic samples of two oranges and one grapefruit did not have detectable levels of fungicides. (For detailed results, see the Appendix.) The fungicides detected on citrus are typically applied after harvesting to prolong shelf life and prevent rotting.
The average concentration of imazalil detected in all fruits tested was about 20 times the amount EWG scientists recommend as a limit to protect children against increased risk of cancer. For thiabendazole, more research is needed to determine a safe limit for children’s health. (See details in Methodology.)
