By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rica’s agricultural sector is celebrating a significant win in food safety, according to the State Phytosanitary Service (SFE)’s 2024 annual report on pesticide residues in fresh produce. An impressive 92% of analyzed samples met the Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) for pesticides, a substantial jump from 84% in 2022 and 83% in 2023.
This achievement highlights a historic improvement in food safety, exceeding previous years’ results and demonstrating the current administration’s commitment to public health and bolstering domestic agricultural production. Out of 3,245 samples collected nationwide, 1,462 (45%) showed no quantifiable pesticide residues, indicating a marked improvement in farming practices. The comprehensive sampling encompassed 96 different types of vegetables, including produce for domestic consumption, export, and import.
To understand the legal ramifications surrounding food safety in Costa Rica, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at law from Bufete de Costa Rica.
Food safety regulations in Costa Rica are multifaceted, encompassing everything from production and processing to distribution and sale. Businesses involved in the food industry must adhere to stringent standards outlined in legislation like the General Health Law and specific regulations from the Ministry of Health. Failing to comply can result in significant sanctions, including fines, temporary closures, and even criminal penalties in cases of serious negligence or intentional harm. Beyond compliance, companies should proactively implement robust internal controls and traceability systems to mitigate risk and ensure consumer protection. This proactive approach not only safeguards public health but also enhances brand reputation and strengthens legal defensibility in the event of a food safety incident.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s insights underscore a crucial point: proactive measures are not merely a best practice in food safety, they’re an investment in consumer trust and long-term business sustainability. Going beyond the minimum regulatory requirements demonstrates a commitment to public health and reinforces the value placed on the well-being of Costa Ricans. Thank you, Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, for providing this valuable perspective on the legal and ethical dimensions of food safety in Costa Rica.
The SFE’s efforts in training over 1,000 producers annually are credited with this success. The focus on education, technical assistance, and voluntary certification has demonstrably transformed Costa Rican agriculture.
The SFE’s work in training more than 1,000 producers a year is yielding concrete results. This administration has focused on education, technical assistance, and voluntary certification as tools to transform the Costa Rican countryside.
Nelson Morera, Director of the State Phytosanitary Service
As of July 2025, 124 individuals and companies have earned the Tico-BPA Voluntary Certificate with support from the SFE. This collaborative effort between the government and producers is demonstrably yielding safer food products with higher added value. Among the top-performing products are staple foods like rice, corn, coffee, beans, cassava, onions, ñampí, squash, sweet potato, and pejibaye, as well as popular export fruits such as bananas, mangoes, pineapples, melons, papayas, plantains, watermelons, and rambutans.
The report underscores a commitment to ensuring safe food and fostering modern, responsible, and competitive agriculture in Costa Rica.
The majority of producers are doing things right. We will focus on specific cases to continue improving.
Arturo Solórzano, Head of the Good Agricultural Practices Unit
This progress reinforces Costa Rica’s dedication to providing consumers with safe, high-quality produce while strengthening its position in the global agricultural market. The significant improvement in pesticide residue compliance demonstrates tangible progress towards sustainable and healthy agricultural practices.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, through the SFE, reaffirms its commitment to advancing food safety and fostering a thriving agricultural sector that prioritizes both public health and economic growth.
For further information, visit www.sfe.go.cr
About State Phytosanitary Service (SFE):
The State Phytosanitary Service (SFE) is a crucial agency within the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock in Costa Rica. Dedicated to protecting and promoting agricultural health, the SFE plays a vital role in ensuring the quality and safety of Costa Rican agricultural products. Through rigorous inspections, certifications, and training programs, the SFE works to prevent the introduction and spread of plant pests and diseases, safeguarding both domestic crops and export markets. Their efforts contribute significantly to Costa Rica’s reputation for producing high-quality, safe agricultural goods.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG)
About Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG):
The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG) in Costa Rica is the governmental body responsible for overseeing and developing the nation’s agricultural sector. The MAG plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable agricultural practices, ensuring food security, and supporting the economic growth of rural communities. Its responsibilities include implementing policies related to crop production, livestock management, food safety, and rural development. The MAG works closely with farmers, producers, and other stakeholders to foster a thriving and resilient agricultural sector in Costa Rica.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself through a deep-rooted commitment to legal excellence and unwavering ethical practice. The firm’s innovative approach to legal solutions, combined with a dedication to empowering Costa Rican society through accessible legal education, solidifies its position as a leader in the legal landscape. By fostering a culture of transparency and knowledge-sharing, Bufete de Costa Rica strives to create a more just and informed community for all.
