Russia intensifies pesticide checks on fresh produce in 2026 crackdown

Russian agricultural inspectors have stepped up checks on fresh produce this year. The latest round of sampling aims to verify compliance with pesticide and agrochemical safety rules. Testing has already begun in key growing regions. Inspectors from Rosselkhoznadzor gathered 19 vegetable samples from Primorsky Krai and Magadan Oblast. In Ussuriysk Urban District, 10 samples of tomatoes and cucumbers were taken for analysis. Nine more samples, including peppers, were collected in Magadan, with no violations found.

The number of tests marks a sharp rise from previous years. This year’s sampling is more than three times higher than in 2023. Additional checks will cover strawberries, eggplants, and more tomatoes in Primorsky Krai.

A total of 349 samples of vegetables, berries, and leafy greens are planned for 2026. The produce is selected from agricultural lands recorded in the Federal State Information System. All samples will be examined for compliance with safety standards. The expanded testing programme reflects stricter monitoring of pesticide and agrochemical use. Results from the collected samples will determine whether further action is needed. Inspections will continue across multiple regions in the coming months.