Topic: Russet Burbank

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Value Chain
Episode 1504 2:32:49 - 2:37:29

1504: Value Chain

McDonald's French Fries and Pesticide Usage

Author Michael Pollan details the agricultural requirements for McDonald's french fries, which must be made from long Russet Burbank potatoes. To avoid "net necrosis" blemishes, farmers use a highly toxic pesticide called Monitor. The potatoes must be stored in atmosphere-controlled sheds for weeks to off-gas chemicals before they are safe for consumption.