Vol. 9, Issue 10, Part H (2025)

Pesticides are chemical substances use to control pests, weeds and several diseases in agriculture, enhancing crop yield and food security. Globally, pesticide use has reached approximately 3.70 million tonnes annually, saving crops worth four times the cost of application. However, over 95% of applied pesticides miss their target, contaminating soil, water and animal feed. Their extensive use has led to unintended consequences, particularly the persistence of residue for several years in soil, air and water. Residues in livestock feed led to bioaccumulation in milk, meat and eggs causing reproductive, neurological and immunological disorders. In India, more than 100 pesticides banned including DDT but are still in use, with widespread detection in animal-origin foods. While regulatory systems exist, gaps remain in monitoring and in setting defined residue limits for animal feed. This review emphasizes the need for safer alternatives such as biopesticides and improved residue mitigation strategies to ensure both animal well-being and food safety.