GEORGE TOWN: Mandarin oranges have long been a symbol of good luck, abundance, and happiness, and many Malaysians snap them up annually in conjunction with the Chinese New Year celebrations.

However, the health ministry recently gave consumers food for thought after revealing that nine out of 243 mandarin orange samples, or 3.7%, it tested had to be thrown away due to high pesticide levels.

Speaking to FMT, two academics from Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) assured the public that mandarin oranges were still generally safe to eat.

USM biological sciences professor K Sudesh said washing the fruit thoroughly under running water, and cleaning hands after peeling the oranges, could reduce any risk.

“The fruit’s thick peel acts as a protective barrier, so the fruit itself is not heavily affected,” he said.

While health authorities already monitor fruits at 70 entry points nationwide, Sudesh said the importance of “Level 5 inspections”, which involve holding and testing shipments before clearing them for sale, should be enforced consistently – particularly for importers with a history of non-compliance.

Another USM academic, Chew Bee Lynn, said pesticides and fungicides played an important role in maintaining fruit quality as they helped to prevent spoilage when shipped.

She said most illnesses from fruits were not due to pesticides but rather bacteria or fungi from spoiled produce.

But as a precaution, she added, consumers should just inspect fruits thoroughly before buying them to avoid those that look rotten.

“They (pesticides and fungicides) should be safe if used at the correct levels. However, there must be stricter rules for suppliers who go above those levels,” said the plant biotechnology lecturer.

She said washing fruits thoroughly with water, organic soap or baking soda could help reduce pesticide and fungicide residue.

Chew also suggested that the customs department check imported fruits more frequently, especially during festivals and fruit seasons.

She said tougher action against suppliers was needed for importers who flouted regulations, adding that the government must revoke the licences of suppliers who consistently failed safety standards.

“The government should also consider banning suppliers abroad who deliver fruits with unsafe pesticide levels and revoke their licences,” she said.

“This will send a strong message and ensure consumers are protected.”