The food production process is far from perfect. Substances unintentionally present in food - known as contaminants - are often detected. Some contamination results directly from mistakes in processing and transportation, and it can also occur from presence of substances in the environment - from pollution as well as the use of agrochemicals and pesticides. These substances are often harmful to the humans who ingest them, and steps need to be taken to minimize the presence of these contaminants.
