Used in sheep dip, organophosphates have been linked to excessive tiredness, headaches, limb pains, disturbed sleep, poor concentration and depression.

Aldicarb

This insecticide, which affects the nervous system, is described by the World Health Organisation as highly toxic and 'extremely hazardous'. A sample test in potatoes this year found that they contained aldicarb above safety levels.

Chlorpyrifos

This is an organophosphorus pesticide used in Britain on fruit, vegetables and cereals. Chlorpyrifos has been restricted in the United States because of the effect it has on the nervous system - especially on children. Germany has noted male and female genital deformities and, as a result, has listed it as an endocrine disrupting drug.

Fresh danger

So, will an apple a day bring the doctor running? Maybe not immediately, but the accumulative effect of all these substances has yet to be realised.

,p>The irony is it is the fresh, supposedly healthy, products that are the most likely to be contaminated. Surely people should be allowed to eat the fresh fruit and vegetables they need without also consuming a chemical cocktail they know nothing about.

Friends of the Earth's Pesticides Campaigner Sandra Bell says: 'We're appalled by this cocktail of risky pesticides in the very foods which should be a healthy choice, such as strawberries, lettuce and celery.

'It's particularly shocking that some of these pesticides are above recognised safety levels for toddlers - it's very disappointing to see that high levels of pesticides were found in UK foods as well as imports and that illegal use of pesticides continues to be a problem.

'We want the Government to take more action to crack down on dodgy chemicals in imported food but it must also do more to help farmers in the UK to get off the chemical treadmill.'

ivillage uk

Potent pesticides

Other nasties include:

Organophosphates

Aldicarb

Chlorpyrifos

Fresh danger