Use and handling of pesticides in different production systems strawberry in Mexico

Abstract

The use and management of pesticides of different production systems were evaluated in Puebla and Tlax­cala States, Mexico. The methodology used was descriptive, qualitative and quantitative. Key informants were interviewed, who represented an average growing area of 2000 m2 and five production systems were characterized and were distinguished by the applied technology like irrigation system, hydroponic system and plastic padding soil as well as by growing under greenhouse condition and free exposure.

The results show that 100% of the products and day laborers use pesticides. The employees are fre­quently classified as less unlikely to present acute risk in normal use. The years of schooling showed a highly significant correlation (p≤00.1) with the usage of pesticides from natural origin. The interviewees do not use complete personal protection equipment and just the 20% manifested poisoning symptoms.

Producción Agropecuaria y Desarrollo Sostenible, Vol. 6, 2017: 27-42