Human health risk associated with pesticide residues 
in milk and milk products

1

1
Exposure leads 

to serious 
effects in 

humans

Possible harmful effects in humans 

• Pesticides are used in crops to prevent pests.
• Some of these crops are often used as feed for dairy animals that can

introduce pesticides into the animals’ body.

Ingestion of feeds having 
pesticide by dairy animals

3

Feed crops are sprayed 
with pesticides 

2

Presence of pesticide residue in 
milk and milk products

4

Pesticides

1

Consumption of milk & milk 
products with pesticide 

residue 

5

6 • Increased risk of cancer
• Respiratory issues
• Endocrine disruptions
• Liver & kidney problems
• Neurological effects
• Fetal and reproductive defects



Measures to reduce pesticide residue in 
milk and milk products

• Adopt good crop and livestock  
production practices.

• Try to avoid feeding crops and 
fodder treated with pesticides.

• Try to avoid using chemical 
pesticides on the farm.

• Try to use herbal pesticides.
• Avoid pesticides that are 

officially banned for use.

• Procure milk from trusted producers.
• Try making sweets and milk products 

from boiled milk.

• Avoid drinking raw milk.
• Boil milk properly.
• Stay informed about pesticide 

risks and its preventive 
measures.

Role of farmers:

Role of consumers:

Role of sweet makers: