Else Beekman
MADRID – Nothing tastes better than a good watermelon on a hot summer day. But be careful: ‘sandias’ from Morocco, according to the health authorities, contain traces of a dangerous pesticide ‘methomyl’.
The European Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF) has described as serious the entry into Spain of a consignment of watermelons containing the pesticide methomyl.
Alerta por la presencia de altos niveles de pesticida no autorizado en sandías procedentes de Marruecoshttps://t.co/D3v1zxqNB6
— FACUA (@FACUA) July 24, 2023
During a border check, the pesticide was found on watermelons from Morocco in quantities that exceed European standards. Methomyl is a substance that is used as a pesticide and can have serious consequences in some cases. Symptoms of poisoning by this substance include headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, excessive sweating, trembling, muscle weakness and blurred vision.
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Don´t eat watermelons from Morocco
Consumers are strongly discouraged from consuming watermelons from Morocco. If they have already bought it, they can immediately return it to the relevant store. The authorities are working closely with supermarkets and shops to ensure that affected watermelons are removed from shelves to protect public health.
If you show symptoms of poisoning after consuming watermelon, it is advisable to seek immediate medical attention and notify your healthcare provider of your possible exposure to the pesticide “methomyl.”
Investigation
The health authorities are currently conducting a thorough investigation into the origin and distribution of these watermelons to prevent further spread and minimise potential risks to public health.
The Spanish consumer association FACUA adds that mixing methomyl with alcohol consumption can affect the central and peripheral nervous system and cause kidney failure.
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