Toxic seesaw not helpingLocal farmers are protesting at the Ministry of Agriculture's plan to reclassify 13 herbs and plants, commonly used by local farmers as "green pesticides", as Type-1 toxic substances. Because the department should remove these herbs and plants -- some of which are key ingredients in popular Thai dishes -- from the toxic substances list altogether. The 13 herbs and plants (which include neem, galangal, ginger, turmeric, citronella grass -- all familiar kitchen ingredients -- and marigold) are now considered Type-2 toxic substances. Besides, putting galangal and chillies on the list of toxic substances could prove to be detrimental to the famous tom yam soup, our so-called national dish. Such efforts are necessary, so green pesticides can be a part of mainstream farming.

Source: Bangkok Post July 15, 2020 22:41 UTC