Simple Ways to Avoid Pesticides in Food, ExposureLisa Garber Here is just a handful of health issues that could arise from exposure to household insecticides and pesticides in food or any other form of exposure. The use of pesticides is especially problematic when looking at the use on farms around the world. Farmers, especially those growing with pesticide-resistant genetically modified crops, spray millions of pounds of pesticides on produce each year, and the consumer inhales it through eating. As mentioned, pesticide exposure can cause numerous complications, and has even been linked to lower intelligence levels and decreased cognitive function. Parental use of pesticides could also lead to an increased risk of brain cancer in children. A growing population of well-informed citizens has called for safer alternatives and the market has delivered with several, safer options. You can save some cash, however, by creating your own bug repellants for household, personal, and pet use with items you probably already have in your pantry. Remember that prevention is the best repellant. Keep food covered and stowed away, clean frequently, and seal cracks in walls and pipes. And avoidance is key when looking at pesticides in food. Your best bet is to buy organic when you can; and when you cant, remember the dirty dozen list of produce you should always buy organic. The top 5 are: For produce not on the dirty dozen list, but still not organic, you can spritz and gently scrub them with a water and vinegar mixture to remove impurities. Additional Source: Explore More: This article first appeared at Natural Society, an excellent resource for health news and vaccine information. 