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Detection of Pesticide Residues in Fruits and Vegetables from Multan, Punjab Pakistan


Article Information

Title: Detection of Pesticide Residues in Fruits and Vegetables from Multan, Punjab Pakistan

Authors: Muhammad Asjad Mehar, Abid Hussain, Tanveer ul-Haq, Nazar Faried, Adnan Fareed, Umair Riaz

Journal: Plant Bulletin

HEC Recognition History
Category From To
Y 2024-10-01 2025-12-31
Y 2023-07-01 2024-09-30

Publisher: Airanam Research

Country: Pakistan

Year: 2023

Volume: 2

Issue: 1

Language: English

DOI: 10.55627/pbulletin.002.01.0275

Keywords: MultanVegetableFruitsPesticideGas chromatography

Categories

Abstract

Pesticide residues are most frequently found in fruits and vegetables, which are hazardous to human health and may cause serious diseases. However, little information is available on the occurrence of pesticides in fruits and vegetables in Multan, Pakistan. A study was conducted to detect the possible pesticide residues in fruits and vegetables available at the local markets of Multan. A total of 40 fruits and vegetables were selected, and samples were collected from the local market of Multan from 2021 to 2022. Moreover, the samples were analyzed by the multi-residue pesticide scan method using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) in the Central Laboratory MNS University of Agriculture, Multan. The finding of the study showed traces of Carbaryl, Linuron, and phorate which were detected in the samples of pear, lemon, and cabbage. However, this is a matter of concern that pesticide residues are detected in the samples of the market, indicating that extensive efforts are required to reduce the possible health risk of pesticides to consumers due to the residue in fruits and vegetables. It is concluded that pesticide residues should be monitored regularly on national level, and the farming community must educate about improved pesticide safety procedures, particularly the need to adhere to the pre-harvest intervals.


Research Objective

To detect the possible pesticide residues in fruits and vegetables available at the local markets of Multan, Pakistan.


Methodology

A multi-residue pesticide scan method using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was employed. Samples of 40 fruits and vegetables were collected from the local market of Multan between 2021 and 2022. The analysis was conducted in the Central Laboratory of MNS University of Agriculture, Multan.

Methodology Flowchart
                        graph TD;
    A[Sample Collection 40 fruits/vegetables from Multan market, 2021-2022] --> B[Sample Extraction and Clean Up];
    B --> C[GC-MS Analysis];
    C --> D[Identification of Pesticide Residues];
    D --> E[Data Interpretation];
    E --> F[Reporting of Findings Carbaryl, Linuron, Phorate in Pear, Lemon, Cabbage];
    F --> G[Conclusion and Recommendations];                    

Discussion

The presence of pesticide residues in market samples is a concern, indicating a need for extensive efforts to reduce potential health risks to consumers. The study suggests that farmers may not be following safety measures during pesticide application, or residues could be due to applications by local vendors. The findings align with other studies reporting pesticide residues in fruits and vegetables.


Key Findings

Traces of Carbaryl, Linuron, and Phorate were detected in samples of pear, lemon, and cabbage. Most of the analyzed fruits and vegetables were found to be free of pesticide residues.


Conclusion

Pesticide residues were detected in cabbage, lemon, and pear from the Multan market. Carbaryl, Linuron, and Phorate were the identified residues. Regular monitoring of pesticide residues at a national level and educating the farming community on improved pesticide safety procedures, particularly pre-harvest intervals, are recommended.


Fact Check

1. Pesticide Detection: Carbaryl, Linuron, and Phorate were detected in pear, lemon, and cabbage samples. (Confirmed in Abstract and Results)
2. Sample Size: A total of 40 fruits and vegetables were selected for the study. (Confirmed in Abstract)
3. Study Period: Samples were collected from 2021 to 2022. (Confirmed in Abstract)


Mind Map

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