Residues and contaminants

Residues are residuals of substances that are deliberately used during the production of food in the agriculture and in the food processing industry. Plant protection products (pesticides) or veterinary drugs are examples of residues. Even when used correctly, residues of the substances applied can remain. Residues can enter into plant foods through the soil or via water, among other ways, but they can also enter animal foods via feed.

Residues differ therefore by definition from contaminants or pollutants. Contaminants are unwanted substances that are not intentionally added to a food. They may get into the food during the food‘s extraction, manufacture, processing, preparation, treatment, presentation, packaging or storage.  Or as a result of environmental contamination.