A recent lab test at Kalimati Vegetable Market in Kathmandu has revealed a shocking result—fresh coriander sold at the market contained 99.379% pesticide known as organophosphate. This level is far beyond what the government allows for safe consumption.
The coriander came from Kavrepalanchok and was brought to Kalimati for sale on Tuesday. During routine checks, the Central Agriculture Laboratory tested vegetables and fruits from 17 different shops. Among them, coriander had the highest pesticide content, making it unfit for consumption.
According to government rules, vegetables with less than 35% pesticide are safe to eat. If the level is between 35% and 45%, it can be eaten after a few days. But anything above 45% is considered harmful and must not be consumed.
This coriander failed badly. Authorities have confirmed that it should not be eaten and warned consumers to be careful while buying greens from the market.