We have several time that bunch of beverage cans and other confectionaries packets are stored in and transported from distribution warehouse. Sometimes these cans and packets are damaged by pest like rats, cockroaches, etc. So warehouse keepers spray pesticides on these cans and packets to avoid pests from damaging items. The presence of pesticides on or in beverage cans is a serious public health concern, stemming primarily from two scenarios: accidental contamination during storage and environmental contamination during manufacturing. Accidental Contamination (External)
•Storage Hazard: Pesticides should never be stored near food or beverages. If a pesticide container leaks or breaks in storage, it can contaminate nearby beverage cans.
•Household Sprays: If residential insect spray (e.g., Raid) lands on a beverage can, it is unlikely to cause acute poisoning in small amounts. However, it is toxic, and contaminated containers should be washed or discarded. Contamination in Production (Internal/External)
•Water and Raw Materials: Pesticide residues (such as DDT and Chlorpyrifos) have been found in soft drinks in India, often caused by contaminated groundwater used in production or contaminated fruit/sugar, according to studies by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) .
•Pesticide Cocktail: Studies have detected multiple, often overlapping, pesticides in bottled drinks at levels far exceeding health standards.
•Long-Term Health Risks: Regular consumption of beverages with pesticide residues is linked to chronic health issues, including cancer, hormone disruption, damage to the nervous system, and birth defects.