Grapes left unrefrigerated for 43 days spark food safety debate in Thailand

A Thai woman's post on Facebook about Shine Muscat grapes that remained fresh for 43 days without refrigeration has sparked a food safety debate in the country. Orsuda On-Khwun shared photos on August 24 in the "We Are Consumers" group, stating that she purchased the grapes on July 10 and they were still green, with wrinkled skin but not rotten. Despite some users joking about the grapes' preservative-free nature or referencing anecdotal experiences, others shared concerning stories of illness after consuming the fruit.

A grape grower defended the fruit's safety, noting that properly refrigerated grapes can remain edible for over six months. However, Thai authorities have previously identified pesticide residues on Shine Muscat grapes. A sample of 24 grapes tested contained over 50 chemical residues, with 23 exceeding legal limits. Notably, chlorpyrifos, a pesticide banned in Thailand, was detected in the samples. The majority of these residues were systemic pesticides, which can penetrate the fruit's flesh.

Experts reassured consumers that residue levels were low compared to international standards, advising washing techniques such as soaking in a baking soda solution or rinsing under running water with diluted salt water to reduce chemical presence. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about pesticide use and food safety standards in Thailand.