Persistent organic pollutants (POPs)

Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are organic compounds that are resistant to environmental degradation through chemical, biological and photolytic processes. Because of their persistence, POPs bioaccumulation with potential significant impacts on human health and the environment. The effect of POPs on human and environmental health was discussed, with intention to eliminate or severely restrict their production, by the international community at the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants in 2001. Many POPs are currently or were in the past used as pesticides, solvents, pharmaceuticals, and industrial chemicals. Although some POPs arise naturally, for example volcanoes and various biosynthetic pathways, most are man-made via total synthesis .

Banded pesticide in Nepal

1. DDT,

2. BHC

3. Aldrin

4. Dialdrin

5. Endrin

6. Linden

7. Heptachlor

8. Mirex

9. Toxaphone

10. Chlordane

11. Phasmamidan

12. Organomercury chloride

13. Methyl parathion

14. Monochrotopos

15. Endosulfan  (organochlorine)

16. Thimate (Phorate) (Organophosphate)

The Environmental Working Group's Shopper's Guide to Pesticides identifies fruits and vegetables that have the highest and lowest pesticide residues. These 15 fruits and vegetables, which make up their "Clean 15" list, are least likely to be contaminated with pesticide residues. They are:

Clean Fifteen:Asparagus, Avocados, Cabbage, Cantaloupe,  Corn, Eggplant, Grapefruit, Kiwi  fruit,  Mango, Mushrooms,  Onions, Papayas, Pineapples, Sweet peas (Frozen), Sweet potatoes