Why is it important to test soil for contaminants before planting crops?

Testing soil for contaminants prior to planting crops is critical for ensuring food safety and preventing the bioaccumulation of harmful substances in the food chain. Contaminants such as heavy metals, pesticides, and pathogens can adversely affect not only crop health but also human health when these crops are consumed. By identifying the presence and concentration of these substances, farmers can take the necessary measures to mitigate risks, such as choosing more suitable planting locations, employing remediation techniques, or deciding against planting altogether in heavily contaminated areas. This protective approach ensures that the food produced is safe for consumption and helps maintain the integrity of the environment by preventing harmful substances from entering the food system.

The other options, while they may have some relevance to agricultural practices, do not directly address the primary concern of preventing health hazards associated with contaminated soil. Enhancing crop yield and improving irrigation efficiency relate more to agronomic practices rather than the safety of the crops produced. Determining soil texture and structure is important for understanding drainage and nutrient holding capacity but does not involve the assessment of harmful contaminants.