The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) is warning people not to eat cactus imported from Mexico because it contains unapproved pesticides. A routine surveillance sample isolated as much as 5.8 parts per million of Monocrotophos, an organophosphate based pesticide that has been banned from use in the U.S. since 1989.
The product was sold at five markets in California, including La Superior SuperMercados in Sacramaento, Stockton, Woodland, and Pittsburg between 2/6/2014 and 2/12/2014; Mercado del Valle in Concord between 2/6/2014 and 2/12/2014; and La Sucursal Produce on Central Avenue in Los Angeles on 2/6/2014. It was also sold at Fresh American Produce on Mission Road in Los Angeles on 2/7/2014 and at J&L Produce on Central Avenue in Los Angeles on 2/6/2014. Whole cases were labeled with a supplier sticker that stated “Comercializadora De Chiles, Selectos Nieto S. De R.L. De C.V.” The cactus was sold in stores in bulk bins without any specific branding or labeling.
Washing or peeling the cactus before preparation can remove some of the pesticide, but those methods aren’t recommended because consumers can’t measure the effectiveness of those procedures. If you have any of this cactus, discard it or return to the place of purchase for a refund.
No illnesses have been reported to date. Symptoms of pesticide poisoning include sweating, headache, weakness, nausea, vomiting, hypersalivation, cramps, and diarrhea. Consumption of Monocrotophos can lead to permanent nerve damage.
