Why Pumpkins Trap Forever Chemicals — and How Hydroponics Helps

About this episode

Dr. Russell Sharp discusses how pumpkins and other cucurbits absorb harmful chemicals and the benefits of hydroponic growing methods.

Dr. Russell Sharp explores research showing that squashes, pumpkins and other cucurbits can absorb persistent hydrophobic pollutants (PCBs, dioxin-like compounds, organochlorine pesticides and furans) because a specific plant protein binds these chemicals and transports them into the fruit. The episode covers the health and food-safety implications, the potential to breed low-accumulating varieties or use phytoremediation, and why growing these crops hydroponically is a safer alternative to avoid soil-borne, long-lasting pesticides. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/ Todd C. Wehner — North Carolina State UniversityWarren Barham Henderson — North Carolina State UniversitySam Jenkins — North Carolina State UniversityChris Hernandez — University of New HampshireA. F. Yeager — University of New HampshireElwyn Meader — University of New HampshireJ. Brent Loy — University of New HampshireCecilia E. McGregor — University of GeorgiaPamela D. Roberts — University of FloridaRebecca Grumet — Michigan State UniversityZhangjun Fei — Boyce Thompson InstituteYiqun Weng — USDA-ARS Vegetable Crops Research Unit (Madison, WI)Jim Myers — Oregon State…

People in this episode

Host: Dr. Russell Sharp

Topics covered

• hydroponics
• food safety
• persistent pollutants
• cucurbits
• phytoremediation
• health implications

Keywords

• pumpkins
• hydrophobic pollutants
• PCBs
• dioxin
• organophosphate pesticides
• phytoremediation
• hydroponics
• food safety
• cucurbits

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: North Carolina State University, University of New Hampshire, University of Georgia, University of Florida, Michigan State University, Boyce Thompson Institute, USDA-ARS Vegetable Crops Research Unit, Oregon State University, Cornell Cooperative Extension, Cornell University

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