Avoid New Cancer-Causing Pesticides by Planting Strawberries Yourself

July 20th, 2010 Posted in Green Living & News, Organic & Chemical Pesticides

For those who haven’t yet heard the news, something very, very bad is happening in the world of pesticides … and it’s coming after the strawberries!


planting strawberries

Methyl bromide, the original pesticide for strawberries that was banned because of its ozone-thinning properties, is about to be replaced by methyl iodide, which is mild on the ozone, but very harsh on human health.

Want to protect yourself from this new toxic pesticide?



Methyl Iodide: The Dangers

California has been presented with a very tough decision regarding the approval of methyl iodide to replace methyl bromide as the primary pesticide used on the states’ strawberry crops (that gross around $2 billion annually). But if they were smart, they would realize that this pesticide is not to be taken lightly.

In lab tests, methyl iodide has been shown to cause cancer, brain damage and even miscarriages. Not to mention, the EPA itself declared that this chemical may also cause thyroid toxicity and permanent brain damage.


planting strawberries

The most frightening part?

Methyl iodide enters the body through contact and through inhalation, meaning that people in close proximity to California’s many strawberry fields, as well as those who buy these chemically treated strawberries, will be at risk for these harmful, long-term diseases.

So, instead of crossing your fingers and hoping that California doesn’t approve this pesticide, take some action.



Save Yourself by Planting Strawberries Organically

What can you do to avoid ingesting these dangerous pesticides?

Grow your own — organically!

You can plant strawberries indoors or out, which makes them perfect for city and country dwellers alike. However, it is important to select the right strawberry before you begin planting to ensure crop success.

Once you’ve picked your strawberry, you can begin planting. Consider planting strawberries indoors if you want to enjoy them fresh, year round.

To keep your strawberries healthy and free of harmful pesticides, use an organic pesticide and fungicide to keep bugs and plant-killing fungi at bay.


planting strawberries

By using EcoSMART, you will avoid contaminating yourself and your family with harmful pesticides. The products are all natural and use plant oils to kill insects. Their fungicides help to keep your strawberry plants healthy by killing any diseases that may begin to attack.

Planting strawberries organically is a great way to avoid this cancer-causing pesticide. Plus, you’ll enjoy fresh strawberries and save money.

This berry never tasted sweeter.

  1. 2 Comments | The First 1,000 to Comment (Starting 12/21/2009) Will Become EcoSMART Product Testers!

  2. By Anna M. on Jul 24, 2010

    Oh My gosh! Really???!!! Shame on you California!:( I LOVE Strawberries, and often the strawberries I buy come from CA. If this happens, I will be boycotting CA strawberries. :( Florida strawberries or my homegrown organic ones. :P

  3. By Brenda on Aug 20, 2010

    My sis told about this. It sucks because so many people buy fruits and vegetables thinking they are eating healthy when they are really eating poison. Organic is the way to go. Its is a bit expensive but you can grow your own fruits and vegies. However you must buy organic seeds for them to actually be organic.

2 Comments | The First 1,000 to Comment (Starting 12/21/2009) Will Become EcoSMART Product Testers! (details)