Consumer Health
China spinach to be tested in Singapore
By DPA
Jul 31, 2006, 19:00 GMT

Singapore - Spinach from China suspected to contain high levels of pesticides will be sent to laboratories for tests starting on Monday, agricultural officials said.

A batch of the leafy greens from Guangzhou was found to contain high levels of organophosphates, according to the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority (AVA).

Excessive consumption of these pesticide compounds could cause nerve damage, the AVA said.

Consumers need not fret, Dr Paul Chiew, deputy director of AVA's Veterinary Public Health Division, told The Straits Times.

It would take 'large amounts' over several years for contaminated food to be toxic to the individual, he was quoted as saying.

Under the surveillance programme, a consignment of spinach will be held for up to five hours in cold storage. If the pesticide levels are found to be acceptable, the consignment is released for sale.

If not, the shipment is destroyed.