Studies of pesticide residues in tomatoes and cucumbers from Kazakhstan and the associated health risks

The human health risks assessment posed by the presence of heavy metals in the rice varieties available in the Neyshabur market

The present study was designed to determine the levels of heavy metals (Cu, Pb, Ni, Cr, Zn, Mn, Cd, and Co), Mn, and As in Iranian-grown rice and imported rice consumed in Neyshabur City. For this research, 90 samples from 30 different brands widely consumed in this city were collected. The content of heavy metals and the health risks associated with their use were then studied. The study found that Zn (14.21 mg kg-1) had the highest content in Iranian and imported rice varieties, whereas Cd (0.02 mg kg-1) had the lowest value. The health risk assessment was also done in three scenarios and separately for two types of rice. The results showed that the total hazard quotient (i.e., THQ) was measured for all metals and all three scenarios, and for both types of rice, it is THQ > 1, which indicates the risk of non-carcinogenic in rice. The cancer risk for three scenarios and two types of imported and Iranian rice is in the unsafe range for As (8.80 × 10-4 to 7.00 × 10-3), Ni (4.60 × 10-4 to 3.60 × 10-3) and Cr (2.20 × 10-4 to 1.90 × 10-3) and negligible for Pb (1.09 × 10-6 to 1.49 × 10-5) and Cd (7.83 × 10-6 to 8.20 × 10-5).

Effects of Melia azedarach extract on demographic and biochemical characteristics of the cabbage aphid, Brevicoryne brassicae

The cabbage aphid, Brevicoryne brassicae L. (Aphididae: Hemiptera) a destructive aphid, is native to Europe and is now found in many other parts of the world. Currently, one of the main problems of Iranian cabbage growers is the significant damage caused by this pest. Also, due to the fresh eating of cabbage, it is necessary to use non-chemical methods to control the pests. Our bioassay tests showed that Melia azedarach L. (Meliaceae) fruit extract showed high toxicity to cabbage aphid. In this study, sublethal effects of M. azedarach extract was investigated on some demographic and biochemical properties of B. brassicae. The results showed that the sublethal concentrations (LC10 and LC20) and LC50 values were 0.68, 1.16, and 3.42 μg/ml, respectively. Compared to the control, sublethal concentrations of insecticide significantly decreased the gross reproductive rate (GRR), net reproductive rate (R0), intrinsic rate of increase (rm), finite rate of increase (λ), intrinsic rate of birth (b), intrinsic rate of death (d), weekly growth rate (rw), reproductive rate and adult longevity of the pest. Meanwhile, the mean generation time (T) and population doubling time (DT) of this aphid increased significantly. Additionally, sublethal doses of insecticide reduced the energy reserves of the pest such as carbohydrate, protein and lipid content compared to the controls. In addition to modify the pH, this extract also changed the distribution and concentration of sodium and potassium ions in haemolymph. Therefore, sublethal concentrations of M. Azedarach fruit extract can be used in the management program of B. brassicae.

Determination of pesticide residue content in fruits and vegetables from Lagos, Nigeria

Developing countries like Nigeria are increasingly employing pesticides to boost the productivity of their agriculture and food supply, despite the fact that doing so poses a health risk to the general populace. The purpose of this study was to assess pesticide residue levels in Lagos, Nigeria. A total of 18 samples from three neighbourhood markets were collected, and they were then examined for the presence of organochlorine (Endosulfan I, Pentachlorophenol, Heptachlor epoxide, and Endosulfan II) and organophosphate (Dichlorvos, Dimethoate, Phorate, and methyl parathion) residues. During the pre-treatment, the multi-residue Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged and Safe (QuEChERS citrate) method with the addition of acetonitrile was used, and then samples were analysed using GC-MS. All of the samples contained dichlorvos, but the orange sample's concentration was below the limit of quantification, making quantification impossible. Dimethoate concentrations were below MRLs except waterleaf sample. With a concentration of 0.043 μg/mL, Waterleaf had the highest quantity of dimethoate in the sample. The findings of this study indicate that in order to safeguard the health of consumers, it is necessary to closely monitor organochlorine and organophosphate use nationwide, along with other related pesticides, and to test for pesticide residues in food products.

Surveillance of pesticide residues in tomato and eggplant and assessment of acute and chronic health risks to the consumers in Pakistan

Pesticide application has become a mandatory requirement of the modern agricultural system, resulting in the objectionable levels of pesticide residues in the treated food commodities and posing health threats to the consumers. This study aimed at optimization and validation of an analytical method which can be reliably applied for routine monitoring of the selected eighteen widely reported pesticides in tomato and eggplant. The principle of quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe, i.e., QuEChERS, involving the acetate-buffered extraction followed by cleanup using the primary secondary amines (PSA) was employed. The analytical method was validated at three spiking levels (0.05, 0.01, 0.005 mg/kg) using gas chromatograph-micro electron capture detector (GC-µECD). Gas chromatograph-mass spectrometric detector (GC-MSD) was also used for confirmation and quantification using selective ion monitoring (SIM) mode. The method was applied on fresh samples of tomato (n = 33) and eggplant (n = 27) collected from local markets of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, in the crop season 2020-2021. Twenty-five (76%) tomato samples and fifteen (56%) eggplant samples were found positive for one or more pesticides. Though the chronic and acute health risk assessments indicate that both of these vegetables are unlikely to pose any unacceptable health threat to their consumers, yet the risks from regular intake of pesticides-contaminated food commodities should be regularly addressed for possible protection of the public health and assurance of safe and consistent agro-trade, alike.

Organophosphorus pesticide contaminants in fruits and vegetables: A meta-analysis

The worldwide demand for organophosphorus pesticides (OPs) in food production has raised concerns about pesticide residues. Meta-analysis, proven effective in assessing contaminants like aflatoxins and organotin compounds, is applied here to comprehensively study OP contamination in fresh fruits and vegetables. Employing Comprehensive Meta-Analysis V3.0 software, we meticulously examined 24 relevant articles encompassing 69,467 data points. Our findings revealed that while the residual concentrations of OPs (such as chlorpyrifos and profenofos) in most fruits and vegetables have typically met international or national safety standards, including Codex Alimentarius Commission, European Union, British, and Chinese standards, there are some instances in which the maximum residue limits have been exceeded, posing safety risks. Therefore, significant efforts are required to maintain residual OP contamination at safe concentrations.

Multiple pesticide residues and risk assessment of Dendrobium officinale Kimura et Migo: a three-year investigation

Dendrobium officinale Kimura et Migo (D. officinale) is a traditional Chinese medicine homologous to food, and its safety has attracted considerable attention. Pesticide residues are critical indicators for evaluating the safety of D. officinale. This study investigated the levels of 130 pesticides in 137 stem samples and 82 leaf samples from five main production areas of D. officinale in Zhejiang Province, along with the associated risk of dietary exposure for the population between 2019 and 2021. Forty-five pesticides were detected in 171 samples, of which pyraclostrobin had the highest detection frequency. Multiple residues were detected in 52.56% of the stem samples and 54.88% of the leaf samples, and one stem sample contained up to 18 pesticides. Here, the level of difenoconazole in three samples (two stem samples and one leaf sample) was higher than the maximum residue limit (MRL) in China. Considering the possible health risks related to pesticide residues, a risk assessment of human exposure to pesticides via the intake of D. officinale stems and leaves was evaluated, indicating negligible short-term, long-term, and cumulative risks to human health. However, considering the high detection rate of unregistered pesticides, the supplementation of pesticide registration information on D. officinale should be expedited, and MRLs should be established to ensure food and drug safety.

Origin, dietary exposure, and toxicity of endocrine-disrupting food chemical contaminants: A comprehensive review

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are a growing public health concern worldwide. Consumption of foodstuffs is currently thought to be one of the principal exposure routes to EDCs. However, alternative ways of human exposure are through inhalation of chemicals and dermal contact. These compounds in food products such as canned food, bottled water, dairy products, fish, meat, egg, and vegetables are a ubiquitous concern to the general population. Therefore, understanding EDCs' properties, such as origin, exposure, toxicological impact, and legal aspects are vital to control their release to the environment and food. The present paper provides an overview of the EDCs and their possible disrupting impact on the endocrine system and other organs.

Residue Analysis and Risk Exposure Assessment of Multiple Pesticides in Tomato and Strawberry and Their Products from Markets

Pesticides are used on fruit and vegetable crops to obtain greater yield and quality. Residues can be detected in these crops or their products if applied pesticides do not degrade naturally. Therefore, this study aimed to estimate pesticide residues in some strawberry and tomato-based products available in the market for human consumption and associated dietary risks. Contamination with 3-15 pesticides in the tested samples was found. The total number of pesticides detected in the tested samples was 20, belonging to the group of insecticides (84%) and fungicides (16%). Pesticides of cypermethrin, thiamethoxam, chlorpyrifos, and lambda-cyhalothrin appeared at 100% in a number of samples, where the most detected was cypermethrin followed by thiamethoxam. The average values of pesticide residues detected in the tested samples ranged from 0.006 to 0.568 mg kg-1, where it was found that cypermethrin had the highest residue value and appeared in strawberry jam obtained from the market. The recovery rate of pesticides from fortified samples with pyrethroids ranged from 47.5% (fenvalerate) to 127% (lambda-cyhalothrin). Home processing of fortified tomato and strawberry samples had a significant effect on reducing residues in tomato sauce and strawberry jam, where the reduction reached 100%. The results of acute and chronic risk assessment showed that their values were much lower than 100%, indicating minimal risk of dietary intake.

Residue analysis of selected organophosphorus and organochlorine pesticides in commercial tomato fruits by gas chromatography mass spectrometry

In this study, analysis of some selected organophosphorus and organochlorine pesticides was carried out in tomato samples collected from the markets of Mettu town, Ilu Aba Bora Zone, Oromia, Ethiopia. The quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged, and Safe (QuEChERS) method was used for the extraction of collected samples using acetonitrile with 1% acetic acid, anhydrous magnesium sulfate, and anhydrous sodium acetate, followed by dispersive solid-phase extraction (d-SPE). Chromatographic separation and quantitative determination of the pesticides were performed by gas chromatography equipped with a mass spectrometer. The calibration curves for each analyte constructed in tomato samples were linear in the concentration range of 2-200 μg/kg with R² > 0.99 and the LODs and LOQs of the method were in the range of 0.01-0.04 μg/kg and 0.04-0.13 μg/kg, respectively. The recovery and precision study results were within acceptable standard guidelines. Of the fourteen pesticides tested, chlordane, hexachlorobenzene, 4, 4'-DDE, 4, 4'-DDD, 4, 4'- DDT, and profenofos were detected at 0.15, 0.09, 0.17, 0.032, 1.24 and 0.062 μg/kg, respectively. Despite the concentrations of the detected pesticides being lower than the maximum residue limit recommended by FAO/WHO, the presence of these toxic chemicals in tomatoes indicates product contamination and requires extensive further investigation with the inclusion of other pesticides.

Reduction in the Residues of Penthiopyrad in Processed Edible Vegetables by Various Soaking Treatments and Health Hazard Evaluation in China

Tomato and cucumber are two vital edible vegetables that usually appear in people's daily diet. Penthiopyrad is a new type of amide chiral fungicide, which is often used for disease control of vegetables (including tomato and cucumber) due to its wide bactericidal spectrum, low toxicity, good penetration, and strong internal absorption. Extensive application of penthiopyrad may have caused potential pollution in the ecosystem. Different processing methods can remove pesticide residues from vegetables and protect human health. In this study, the penthiopyrad removal efficiency of soaking and peeling from tomatoes and cucumbers was evaluated under different conditions. Among different soaking methods, heated water soaking and water soaking with additives (NaCl, acetic acid, and surfactant) presented a more effective reduction ability than other treatments. Due to the specific physicochemical properties of tomatoes and cucumbers, the ultrasound enhances the removal rate of soaking for tomato samples and inhibits it for cucumber samples. Peeling can remove approximately 90% of penthiopyrad from contaminated tomato and cucumber samples. Enantioselectivity was found only during tomato sauce storage, which may be related to the complex microbial community. Health risk assessment data suggests that tomatoes and cucumbers are safer for consumers after soaking and peeling. The results may provide consumers with some useful information to choose better household processing methods to remove penthiopyrad residues from tomatoes, cucumbers, and other edible vegetables.

Pesticide Residues and Effect of Household Processing in Commonly Consumed Vegetables in Jimma Zone, Southwest Ethiopia

The long-term and indiscriminate use of pesticides has resulted in serious health effects. Aside from that, developing countries do not have any monitoring systems in place to prevent the consumption of high levels of pesticides in foods. Therefore, this study aimed to determine pesticide residues and the effect of processing in commonly consumed vegetables in the southwestern part of Ethiopia. In total, 12 samples of 1 kg of each type of vegetable were collected from selected markets. Moreover, as a solution to pesticide residue problems in vegetables, the effect of different processing methods such as washing, peeling, boiling, and their cumulative effect was studied. In the analytical procedure, the modified Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged, and Safe (QuEChERS) extraction with florisil as a cleanup sorbent was used and the identification of pesticides was done by using gas chromatography with an electron capture detector (GC-ECD). The parent p,p'-DDT was detected at a concentration of 0.015 mg/kg in potato samples from the Serbo market and a concentration of 0.516, 0.232, 0.174, and 1.512 mg/kg in Merkato, Kochi, Serbo, and Shebe onion samples, respectively. P`p-DDT is detected at a high concentration compared to its metabolites (p,p'-DDE and p,p'-DDD), which is an indication of recent use. DDT and its metabolites, other organochlorines (lindane, γ-chlordane, dimethachlor, and heptachlor), and pyrethroids (cypermethrin and deltamethrin) exceeded the recommended limits by FAO and WHO in multiple samples of potato, onion, and cabbage. The processing result showed that washing, boiling, and the combination of the two revealed a 100% reduction in o,p'-DDT, and p,p'-DDT pesticides detected in cabbage. In conclusion, multiple residues were detected in the three vegetables studied, indicating that pesticides were applied intensively. Pesticide levels were reduced by home processing procedures, which is important for consumer safety.

Investigation and Analysis of Pesticide Residues in Four Common Vegetables and Risk Assessment of Dietary Exposure in Ceramic Capital, China

In order to understand the basic situation of pesticide residues in vegetables in China’s porcelain capital, four kinds of common vegetables on the market were selected in this study for detection and analysis of pesticide residues. The pesticide residues in vegetables were analyzed through sample selection, optimization of instrument and equipment conditions, and comparison of detection pass rates. The sampling locations were common vegetables purchasing places such as large and medium-sized supermarkets. QuEChERS method was used as the sample pretreatment, and gas chromatography (GC-MS/MS) was used for quantitative analysis. Finally, the exposure risk of pesticides was assessed according to the test results. The results showed that all the pesticides were detected in four kinds of vegetables, but the detected pesticides did not exceed the national standard (GB 2763-2014, China). Moreover, the target risk coefficient (THQ) and risk index (HI) values of four vegetables were less than one, indicating that the combined and toxic effect of pesticide residual mixed contamination was smaller in four vegetables. Therefore, there was no significant harm from people using these vegetables.

Dietary risk assessment of selected organophosphorus and pyrethoid pesticide residues in fresh harvested tomatoes at Makambako Town, Njombe region, Tanzania

This study aimed to assess the levels of selected pesticides residues in harvested tomatoes and their associated dietary risks to consumers at Makambako Town in Njombe region, Tanzania. Forty-two fresh tomatoes were sampled among tomato farmers during harvesting season and extraction of analytes was done using QuEChERS method and analysed by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometer. Residues of chlorpyrifos, profenofos, gamma cyhalothrin and cypermethrin were alternatingly detected in 78.51% of samples. The average concentrations of residues were 0.014, 0.056, 0.003 and 0.2 mg/kg for chlorpyrifos, profenofos, gamma cyhalothrin and cypermethrin and were all below their respective Codex MRLs. The highest concentration was 0.718 mg/kg for cypermethrin, above the Codex MRL of 0.2 mg/kg. The hazard indexes indicate no potential health hazards to the general population due to the lifetime consumption of fresh tomatoes from the study area. Periodic monitoring of residue levels of pesticides in vegetable fruits, including tomatoes, is recommended.

Cytoprotective and Antigenotoxic Properties of Organic vs. Conventional Tomato Puree: Evidence in Zebrafish Model

In this in vivo study, we investigated cytoprotective and antigenotoxic effects of commercial tomato puree obtained from conventional vs. organic farming systems (pesticides vs. pesticide-free agriculture, respectively). This is relevant as pesticides are widely used in agriculture to prevent pests, weeds, and the spread of plant pathogens. By exposing zebrafish to tomato puree alone and in combination with H2O2 (a well-known genotoxic agent), we analyzed the percentage of fish survival, cell viability, intracellular concentration of reactive oxygen species (ROS), DNA fragmentation index (DFI%), and genomic template stability (GTS%). Fish exposed to organic puree showed higher fish survival and cellular viability, lower DFI% and ROS, and improved GTS%. Our results suggest a higher cytoprotective and antigenotoxic effect of organic pesticide-free tomatoes, probably because the activity of natural phytochemicals is not affected by the presence of toxic residues, which are otherwise produced by pesticides used in conventional farming systems. Our study points out the importance of considering alternative strategies in agriculture to minimize the genotoxic impact of chemical pesticides.

An assessment of health risks posed by consumption of pesticide residues in fruits and vegetables among residents in the Kampala Metropolitan Area in Uganda

Background

Pesticide use for fruits and vegetable production in Uganda may result in presence of residues on produce which may pose health risks to consumers. Uganda does not have an established system for monitoring pesticide residues in fruits and vegetables and assessing potential health risks. This research aimed to conduct a health risk assessment of presence of pesticide residues in fruits and vegetables in the Kampala Metropolitan Area in Uganda.

Method

Pesticides were measured in 160 fruits and vegetables samples collected at farms, markets, street vendors, restaurants and homes; and analysed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Fruit and vegetable consumption information was collected from 2177 people. Pesticide concentrations were compared with European Union maximum residual limits (MRLs). Mean values of pesticide concentration residues found in the sample of fruits and vegetables; and fruits and vegetables intake and body weight were used to calculate the estimated daily intake (EDI) of pesticide residues. EDI values were compared with acceptable daily intakes (ADI) to calculate the hazard quotient by age group, and stage at which consumption happens along the chain.

Results

Overall, 57 pesticides were detected in fruits and vegetables from farm to fork. Of the 57, 39 pesticides were detected in all the fruits and vegetables studied. Concentrations of fonofos, fenitrothion and fenhexamid were above the European Union MRLs in some samples. Hazard quotients based on dietary ingestion scenarios for 18 pesticides, including dichlorvos (444) alanycarb (314), fonofos (68), fenitrothion (62), dioxacarb (55) and benfuracarb (24) and others, were above 1, indicating the possibility of chronic health risk to consumers. Chronic health risk decreased with age but was stable for stage at which consumption happens along the food chain. The number of pesticides with EDI greater than the ADI decreased with increase in age; with 18, 13, 9, 11, 8, 9, and 9 pesticides for age groups < 5, 5-12, 13-19, 20-25, 36-49 and ≥ 50 respectively.

Conclusion

Chronic dietary pesticide exposures to Ugandans are likely common, and for some pesticides result in exposure exceeding health-based benchmarks. Risks were highest for younger participants. There is an urgent need to increase monitoring and regulation of pesticides in fruits and vegetables in order to protect consumers, especially the children who are vulnerable to the adverse effects of pesticides.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40550-022-00090-9.

Advancement and New Trends in Analysis of Pesticide Residues in Food: A Comprehensive Review

Food safety is a rising challenge worldwide due to the expanding population and the need to produce food to feed the growing population. At the same time, pesticide residues found in high concentrations in fresh agriculture pose a significant threat to food safety. Presently, crop output is being increased by applying herbicides, fungicides, insecticides, pesticides, fertilizers, nematicides, and soil amendments. A combination of factors, including bioaccumulation, widespread usage, selective toxicity, and stability, make pesticides among the most toxic compounds polluting the environment. They are especially harmful in vegetables and fruits because people are exposed to them. Thus, it is critical to monitor pesticide levels in fruits and vegetables using all analytical techniques available. Any evaluation of the condition of pesticide contamination in fruits and vegetables necessitates knowledge of maximum residue levels (MRLs). We set out the problems in determining various types of pesticides in vegetables and fruits, including the complexity and the diversity of matrices in biological materials. This review examines the different analytical techniques to determine the target analytes that must be isolated before final consumption. Many processes involved determining pesticide residues in fruits and vegetables and their advantages and disadvantages have been discussed with recommendations. Furthermore, MRLs of target pesticide residues in fruit and vegetable samples are discussed in the context of data from the literature. The review also examines MRLs' impact on the international trade of fruits and vegetables. Accurate, sensitive, and robust analytical procedures are critical to ensuring that pesticide levels in food products are effectively regulated. Despite advances in detection technology, effective sample preparation procedures for pesticide residue measurement in cereals and feedstuffs are still needed. In addition, these methods must be compatible with current analytical techniques. Multi-residue approaches that cover a wide range of pesticides are desired, even though pesticides' diverse natures, classes, and physio-chemical characteristics make such methods challenging to assemble. This review will be valuable to food analysts and regulatory authorities to monitor the quality and safety of fresh food products.

Pesticide residues in green-house cucumber, cantaloupe, and melon samples from Iran: A risk assessment by Monte Carlo Simulation

This research aims to analyze 56 pesticide residues in 100 green-house cucumber and 150 cantaloupe and melon samples collected from markets in Iran by Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged, and Safe (QuEChERS) extraction method based on analysis with ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS). In addition, non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic probabilistic health risk assessments were evaluated by Hazard Quotient (HQ), Hazard Index (HI), and Carcinogenic Risk (CR) based on the Monte Carlo Simulation (MCS) method. According to Iranian regulation, 18% of cucumber and 22% of cantaloupe and melon samples were contaminated by at least one pesticide. Arrange pesticides based on HQ ranking was diazinon > thiacloprid > imidacloprid tebuconazole for cucumbers and chlorpyrifos > thiacloprid > imidacloprid > metalaxyl for cantaloupes and melons. In addition, HI for adults was 0.067 in cucumber and 0.24 in cantaloupe and melon; and for children, 0.30 in cucumber and 0.60 in cantaloupe and melon. Arrange pesticides based on CR ranking was thiacloprid > imidacloprid > metalaxyl > chlorpyrifos > tebuconazole > diazinon. However, CR was more than 1.0E-6 value due to thiacloprid, so consumers were at considerable carcinogenic risk in these commodities.

In-silico Studies Calculated a New Chitin Oligomer Binding Site Inside Vicilin: A Potent Antifungal and Insecticidal Agent

Vicilins are major seed storage proteins and show differential binding affinities toward sugar moieties of fungal cell wall and insect gut epithelium. Hence, purpose of study is the thorough in-silico characterization of interactions between vicilin and chitin oligomer followed by fungal and insecticidal bioassays. This work covers the molecular simulation studies explaining the interactions between Pisum sativum vicilin (PsV) and chitin oligomer followed by protein bioassay against different pathogens. LC-MS/MS of purified PsV (∼50 kDa) generated residual data along high pea vicilin homology (UniProtKB ID; P13918). Predicted model (PsV) indicated the characteristic homotrimer joined through head-to-tail association and each monomer is containing a bicupin domain. PsV site map analysis showed a new site (Site 4) into which molecular docking confirmed the strong binding of chitin oligomer (GlcNAc)₄. Molecular dynamics simulation data (50 ns) indicated that chitin-binding site was comprised of 8 residues (DKEDRNEN). However, aspartate and glutamate significantly contributed in the stability of ligand binding. Computational findings were further verified via significant growth inhibition of Aspergillus flavus, A. niger, and Fusarium oxysporum against PsV. Additionally, the substantial adult population of Brevicoryne brassicae was reduced and different life stages of Tribolium castaneum also showed significant mortality.

Effects of combined treatment of plasma activated liquid and ultrasound for degradation of chlorothalonil fungicide residues in tomato

The effects of combined treatment (PAL-U) of plasma-activated liquid (PAL) including plasma-activated water (PAW) and plasma-activated buffer solution (PABS) and ultrasound (U) for the degradation of chlorothalonil fungicide on tomato fruit was investigated. Distilled water and buffer solution were activated by radiofrequency plasma jet for durations of 1, 3, 5, and 10 min to obtain PAL₁ to PAL₁₀. Fruits were immersed in PAL for 15 min and also in distilled water with sonication for 15 min for individual treatments, and in PAL with sonication for 15 min for combined treatments. The maximum chlorothalonil fungicide residues were reduced by 89.28 and 80.23% for PAW₁₀-U and PABS₁₀-U, respectively. HPLC-MS characterization revealed chlorothalonil degradation pathway and formation of 2,4,5-trichloroisophthalonitrile, 2,4-dichloroisophthalonitrile, 4-chloroisophthalonitrile, isophthalonitrile and phenylacetonitrile as degradation products. Treatments also showed no negative effects on tomato quality. Therefore, PAL and PAL-U treatments could serve as effective methods for degrading pesticides on tomatoes.

Impact of sonolytic ozonation (O3/US) on degradation of pesticide residues in fresh vegetables and fruits: Case study of Faisalabad, Pakistan

High pesticide residues in fresh produce is a serious food safety issue. This study was aimed at assessing the pesticides residues in some important vegetables and fruits marketed in Faisalabad, Pakistan and the impact of sonolytic ozonation (O₃/US) treatment in removing these contaminants. From a short grower's survey, five registered and mostly used pesticides (acetamiprid, carbendazim, imidacloprid, thiacloprid and thiamethoxam) were identified. A time optimization trial of O₃/US application (05, 10 and 15 min) on okra, showed that 10 min treatment significantly reduced three identified chemicals (thiamethoxam 100 %, imidacloprid and thiacloprid 97.17 %), without any adverse effect on its quality. In follow up trial, five fresh vegetables (cauliflower, chillies, cucumber, spinach and tomato) three fresh fruits (grapes, guava and peach) collected from three markets of Faisalabad, were pooled together to have uniform samples. Vegetables and fruits were treated with O₃/US for 10 and 6 min, respectively, along with control (simple tap wash) for determining the impacts on pesticides degradation. Samples were processed for extraction, clean up and analysis using HPLC-UV-Vis in isocratic mode. The data revealed the presence of five mentioned chemicals, with an accumulative mean residue of 9.006 and 1.921 µg/g in tested vegetables and fruits, respectively. After subjecting to O₃/US, the accumulative chemical residues were reduced to 3.214 µg/g (64.313 %) and 1.064 (44.6 %) in treated vegetables and fruits respectively. Irrespective of fresh produce, the mean residues of thiamethoxam, imidachloprid, acetamiprid and thiachloprid and carbendazim were reduced by 99.3 %, 52.6 %, 65.2 %, 87.3 % and 72% respectively. It was concluded that sonolytic ozonation treatment was effective in significant reduction of pesticide residues from vegetables and fruits and thus can be employed as a good food safety practice at culinary level to reduce the associated health hazardous risks.

In vitro enantioselective inhibition of the main human CYP450 enzymes involved in drug metabolism by the chiral pesticide tebuconazole

Tebuconazole (TEB) is a chiral triazole fungicide worldwide employed to control plant pathogens and preserve wood. People can be exposed to TEB either through diet and occupational contamination. This work investigates the in vitro inhibitory potential of rac-TEB, S-(+)-TEB, and R-(-)-TEB over the main cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYP450) using human liver microsomes to predict TEB in vivo inhibition potential. The IC₅₀ values showed that in vitro inhibition was enantioselective for CYP2C9, CYP2C19, and CYP2D6, but not for CYP3A4/5. Despite enantioselectivity, rac-TEB and its single enantiomers were always classified in the same category. The inhibition mechanisms and constants were determined for rac-TEB and it has shown to be a mixed inhibitor of CYP3A4/5 (K_i = 1.3 ± 0.3 μM, αK_i = 3.2 ± 0.5 μM; K_i = 0.6 ± 0.3 μM, αK_i = 1.3 ± 0.3 μM) and CYP2C9 (K_i = 0.7 ± 0.1 μM, αK_i = 2.7 ± 0.5 μM), and a competitive inhibitor of CYP2D6 (K_i = 11.9 ± 0.7 μM) and CYP2C19 (K_i = 0.23 ± 0.02 μM), respectively, suggesting that in some cases, rac-TEB has a higher or comparable inhibitory potential than well-known strong inhibitors of CYP450 enzymes, especially for CYP2C9 and CYP2C19. In vitro-in vivo extrapolations (IVIVE) were conducted based on the results and data available in the literature about TEB absorption and metabolism. R₁ values were estimated based on the Food and Drug Administration guideline and suggested that in a chronic oral exposure scenario considering the acceptable daily intake dose proposed by the European Food and Safety Authority, the hypothesis of rac-TEB to inhibit the activities of CYP3A4/5, CYP2C9, and CYP2C19 in vivo and cause pesticide-drug interactions cannot be disregarded.

Analysis of Multi-Pesticide Residues and Dietary Risk Assessment in Fresh Tomatoes (Lycopersicum esculentum) from Local Supermarkets of the Metropolitan Region, Chile

In recent years, the official authorities in Chile have reported transgressions in the maximum residue levels of pesticides in fresh vegetables. There is no official information about traceability, pesticide levels, and potential health risks. The aim of this study was to analyse pesticide residues and their corresponding dietary risk assessments in tomatoes from supermarkets in the Metropolitan Region. Pesticides were extracted using the Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged and Safe, QuEChERS method, and their concentrations were determined by using chromatography with HPLC-FL/UV and GC-MS/ECD/NPD, following the Analytical Quality Control and Method Validation Procedures for Pesticides Residues Analysis in Food and Feed, SANTE guide and ISO 17025:2017 standard. In addition, a dietary risk assessment was carried out by comparing Chilean data to international references. The results reported that 9% of the samples had pesticide residue levels above the maximum residue levels permitted in Chile. All the scenarios evaluated revealed the highest estimated daily intake and hazard quotients for methamidophos and chlorpyrifos. Both the active substances used were acetylcholinesterase inhibitors and were neurotoxic under chronic risk assessment. The results showed the highest chronic hazard index in the Chilean scenario for all age groups and genders. The evidence obtained revealed that methamidophos, methomyl, and chlorpyrifos should be restricted for their use in Chilean agriculture.

Monitoring and risk assessment of pesticide residues in selected herbal medicinal products in Ghana

The high patronage of herbal medicinal products in Ghana for the treatment of diverse disease conditions raises concerns about patient safety, given that much of the raw materials for production are obtained from the wild or farmlands potentially exposed to varied agrochemical residues. Therefore, the work sought to investigate the contamination of herbal medicinal products with pesticide residues and assess the potential risk posed to patients. As a result, validated gas chromatography with mass spectrometry as a detector was used to determine forty-two pesticides in thirty herbal medicinal products. The performance parameters of the method such as linearity, accuracy, and precision were found as acceptable. Pesticide residues such as chlorpyrifos and/or bifenthrin were found in 4/30 herbal medicinal products. Specifically, 3/30 herbal medicinal products contained only one pesticide, while 1/30 was contaminated with both pesticide residues. The levels of pesticide residue contamination ranged between 2.5 and 5.0 µg/kg. The acute hazard quotient and chronic hazard quotient for the two pesticide residues were evaluated and ranged between 0.21 and 0.92% and between 8.21 × 10^-4 and 5.88 × 10^-3%. The detected pesticide residue levels are below the maximum residue limit values, which may not cause acute and chronic health risks due to intake of the selected herbal medicinal product. Nevertheless, patient safety and potential public health risk can be reduced by regular monitoring, and regulation of pesticide residue levels in herbal medicinal products.

Residues of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in waters of the Ili-Balkhash Basin, arid Central Asia: Concentrations and risk assessment

Release and transport of contaminants in watersheds can have adverse effects on aquatic organisms and human health. Little attention, however, has been paid to chemical contamination of aquatic environments in arid regions by persistent organic pollutants. We analyzed the concentrations and distributions of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in waters of the Ili-Balkhash Basin, in arid central Asia. ΣOCP concentrations ranged from 4.02 to 122.80 ng L^-1 and ΣPAH concentrations were between 7.58 and 70.98 ng L^-1. On a global scale, OCP and PAH concentrations in waters of the Ili-Balkhash system were relatively low, with only a few exceptions, i.e., highest concentrations near cities and relatively high values in some headwater areas. Source identification revealed that the dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethanes (DDTs) may come from recent use, whereas endosulfans stem from historic applications. Lindane, a common insecticide, may be responsible for hexachlorocyclohexanes (HCHs). Low-molecular-weight PAHs, primarily originating from wood and coal combustion and petroleum-derived sources, were the primary components of PAHs in waters. Furthermore, the primary sources of PAHs at different sites were identified using a Positive Matrix Factorization model: 1) oil leakage (33.9%), 2) biomass burning (29.5%), 3) coal combustion (22.6%), and 4) petroleum-powered vehicles (14.1%). Agricultural, industrial and domestic activities are all potential pollution sources. Besides, contaminated headwater areas indicate that long-range transport has probably become a non-negligible mechanism for pollutant distribution. Risk assessment showed low to moderate toxicity for aquatic organisms, but no marked carcinogenic or non-carcinogenic risks for human health.

Pesticide residues and health risk appraisal of tomato cultivated in greenhouse from the Mediterranean region of Turkey

This research aims at assessing the health risks associated with pesticide residues in greenhouse grown tomato production in the Mediterranean Region of Turkey. A multiresidue method based on modified QuEChERS (quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe) was used for sample preparation that is applied for pesticide detection from extraction of tomato samples in the methodology generated by The Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC) Official Method. The restrain of the quantification varied from 0.002 to 0.009 mg kg-1. The validated data exposed both adequate recoveries, repeatability and reproducibility, including accomplished all other requirements of the European DG SANTE/12682/2019 Guideline. This study divulges that tomatoes cultivated in greenhouse demonstrate 61.5% of samples with one or various pesticide residues. The maximum permitted residue level of above the EU DG Guideline was in 12.2% of the samples. The main determined pesticide residues on the tomatoes cultivated in greenhouse were identified as chlorpyrifos methyl, cyfluthrin, deltamethrin, and acetamiprid. Chlorpyrifos methyl (9.5%), cyfluthrin (6.6%), deltamethrin (5.5%), and acetamiprid (3.2%) were recognized as the most conducing residues to the hazard index (HI). The HI was 9.5% for adults and 11.02% for children (3 to <10 years). The major contributor of the HI was chlorpyrifos in both.

Determination of 77 Multiclass Pesticides and Their Metabolitesin Capsicum and Tomato Using GC-MS/MS and LC-MS/MS

A quick, sensitive, and reproducible analytical method for the determination of 77 multiclass pesticides and their metabolites in Capsicum and tomato by gas and liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry was standardized and validated. The limit of detection of 0.19 to 10.91 and limit of quantification of 0.63 to 36.34 µg·kg⁻¹ for Capsicum and 0.10 to 9.55 µg·kg⁻¹ (LOD) and 0.35 to 33.43 µg·kg⁻¹ (LOQ) for tomato. The method involves extraction of sample with acetonitrile, purification by dispersive solid phase extraction using primary secondary amine and graphitized carbon black. The recoveries of all pesticides were in the range of 75 to 110% with a relative standard deviation of less than 20%. Similarly, the method precision was evaluated interms of repeatability (RSDr) and reproducibility (RSD_wR) by spiking of mixed pesticides standards at 100 µg·kg⁻¹ recorded anRSD of less than 20%. The matrix effect was acceptable and no significant variation was observed in both the matrices except for few pesticides. The estimated measurement uncertainty found acceptable for all the pesticides. This method found suitable for analysis of vegetable samples drawn from market and farm gates.

Agriculture Development, Pesticide Application and Its Impact on the Environment

Pesticides are indispensable in agricultural production. They have been used by farmers to control weeds and insects, and their remarkable increases in agricultural products have been reported. The increase in the world's population in the 20th century could not have been possible without a parallel increase in food production. About one-third of agricultural products are produced depending on the application of pesticides. Without the use of pesticides, there would be a 78% loss of fruit production, a 54% loss of vegetable production, and a 32% loss of cereal production. Therefore, pesticides play a critical role in reducing diseases and increasing crop yields worldwide. Thus, it is essential to discuss the agricultural development process; the historical perspective, types and specific uses of pesticides; and pesticide behavior, its contamination, and adverse effects on the natural environment. The review study indicates that agricultural development has a long history in many places around the world. The history of pesticide use can be divided into three periods of time. Pesticides are classified by different classification terms such as chemical classes, functional groups, modes of action, and toxicity. Pesticides are used to kill pests and control weeds using chemical ingredients; hence, they can also be toxic to other organisms, including birds, fish, beneficial insects, and non-target plants, as well as air, water, soil, and crops. Moreover, pesticide contamination moves away from the target plants, resulting in environmental pollution. Such chemical residues impact human health through environmental and food contamination. In addition, climate change-related factors also impact on pesticide application and result in increased pesticide usage and pesticide pollution. Therefore, this review will provide the scientific information necessary for pesticide application and management in the future.

Modelling of Health Risk Associated with the Intake of Pesticides from Romanian Fruits and Vegetables

This study is focused on the assessment of risks caused by pesticide residues to Romanian and other European populations, by modelling the acute and chronic risks considering short- and long-term exposures to pesticide residues in specific fruits and vegetables from different Romanian regions. Data were obtained from the Romanian 2016 official monitoring programme. For assessing the dietary risk, we used the Pesticide Residue Intake model—PRIMo. According to the official data, it was found that 50.44% of fruit samples and 28.25% of vegetable samples were contaminated with pesticides. Our study focused on acute risks and chronic risks (in a maximalist worst-case scenario) posed by pesticide residues in strawberries, apples, lettuce and potatoes, given both their high degree of consumption and contamination with pesticides. The short-term exposure assessment of children’s health due to consumption of apples, lettuce and potatoes contaminated with dimethoate, chlorothalonil and carbendazim, revealed exposure levels higher than the acute reference dose (ARfD, as 100%), raising acute risks. On the other hand, the long-term exposure assessment showed that the highest percentage from the acceptable daily intake (ADI, as 100%) was obtained for German children (DE child) (273.9%), followed by Netherlands children (NL child) (143.7%) diets, based on consumption of apples with dimethoate residues. Therefore, serious measures are needed for banning pesticides such as dimethoate, chlorothalonil and carbendazim from all countries in the EU. This would reduce the health risks generated by the consumption of contaminated fruits and vegetables.

Non-thermal technologies: Solution for hazardous pesticides reduction in fruits and vegetables

Pesticide residues in the food above the maximum permissible residual limit (MRL) for safe consumption are a severe concern today. Though unit operations employed in domestic and industrial-scale processing of foods such as high-temperature decontamination and chemical washings degrade the agrochemicals and reduce toxicity, eliminating pesticides from the fresh and raw fruits and vegetables with the retainment of nutritional and organoleptic attributes demand appropriate non-thermal technologies. In this review, the potential of novel technologies like the pulsed electric field, high-pressure processing, irradiation, ozone, ultrasonication, and cold plasma for the reduction of pesticides in fruits and vegetables have been discussed in terms of their mechanism of action, playing around factors, advantages, and limitations. All the reviewed non-thermal technologies exhibited promising effects on pesticide degradation with their unique mechanism of action. Also, these techniques' potential to reduce the pesticides below MRLs and yield nontoxic metabolites in fruits and vegetables were analyzed. However, investigating the impact of the technologies on the nutritional and organoleptic quality profile of the commodities at the processing conditions causing noticeable pesticide reduction and the pathways of degradation reactions of various pesticides with each emerging technology should be studied to enhance the applicability.

[Protection by some plant methanol extracts of cherry tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum var. Cerasiforme) from fungic infection by Alternaria alternata]

Cherry tomato is very susceptible to fungal infections that can cause considerable damage in crops and during storage. Alternaria infection is one of the most common and dangerous alterations for this fruit. They are caused by Alternaria alternata or some other species belonging to the same genus. In this work, we tested the antifungal activity of methanol extracts from five plants harvested in the region of Jijel (Algeria) on A. alternata. The activity was first tested in vitro and then on greenhouse cherry tomato plants: extracts were applied to healthy plants before infection in order to test their preventive action, and after infection to determine whether they are able to knock out Alternaria. Results showed that Rosmarinus officinalis and Lavandula angustifolia extracts were the most active in vitro on A. alternata. Microscopic observations of the mold indicated that these extracts inhibited the dictyospores production. The antifungal activity tested on the plants grown in greenhouse revealed that R. officinalis extract still was the most active. Extracts of L. angustifolia and Punica granatum did not protect the plants from Alternaria infection, but provided a total cure at the end of the treatment. Extracts from Quercus suber and Eucalyptus globulus were the least active. They did not bestow any protection nor complete healing of the plants. Dictyospores counting on fruits at the end of the treatment confirmed the results obtained for the greenhouse crops.

Pesticide residues in tomato and tomato products marketed in Majmaah province, KSA, and their impact on human health

Over 22 samples of tomato, tomato paste, and ketchup collected from local markets, located in Majmaah Province, Saudi Arabia, were tested for the presence of 412 pesticide residues using the modified QuEChERS method, followed by LC-MS/MS and GC-MS/MS. About eight pesticide residues were detected in 36% of analyzed samples. The amount and frequency of detected pesticide residues were higher in tomato samples. All detected residues were below the maximum residue limits (MRLs). Multiple residues were detected in 27% of analyzed samples. Of the pesticides, cypermethrin was the most detected one followed by carbendazim. The average daily intake and health risk indices for Majmaah region population were estimated. The results showed that consumption of tomato and its products do not represent a risk to human health in this region. However, the presence of multiple residues in some samples necessitates regular monitoring of pesticide residues in tomato crop.

Insecticidal activity and biochemical composition of Citrullus colocynthis, Cannabis indica and Artemisia argyi extracts against cabbage aphid (Brevicoryne brassicae L.)

Plant extracts contain many active compounds, which are tremendously fruitful for plant defence against several insect pests. The prime objectives of the present study were to calculate the extraction yield and to evaluate the leaf extracts of Citrullus colocynthis (L.), Cannabis indica (L.) and Artemisia argyi (L.) against Brevicoryne brassicae and to conduct biochemical analysis by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The results suggested that when using ethanol, C. colocynthis produced a high dry yield (12.45%), followed by that of C. indica and A. argyi, which were 12.37% and 10.95%, respectively. The toxicity results showed that A. argyi was toxic to B. brassicae with an LC₅₀ of 3.91 mg mL⁻¹, followed by the toxicity of C. colocynthis and C. indica, exhibiting LC₅₀ values of 6.26 and 10.04 mg mL⁻¹, respectively, which were obtained via a residual assay; with a contact assay, the LC₅₀ values of C. colocynthis, C. indica and A. argyi were 0.22 mg mL⁻¹, 1.96 and 2.87 mg mL⁻¹, respectively. The interaction of plant extracts, concentration and time revealed that the maximum mortality based on a concentration of 20 mg L⁻¹ was 55.50%, the time-based mortality was 55% at 72 h of exposure, and the treatment-based mortality was 44.13% for A. argyi via the residual assay. On the other hand, the maximum concentration-based mortality was 74.44% at 20 mg mL⁻¹, the time-based mortality was 66.38% after 72 h of exposure, and 57.30% treatment-based mortality was afforded by A. argyi via the contact assay. The biochemical analysis presented ten constituents in both the A. argyi and C. colocynthis extracts and twenty in that of C. indica, corresponding to 99.80%, 99.99% and 97% of the total extracts, respectively. Moreover, the detected caryophylleneonides (sesquiterpenes), α-bisabolol and dronabinol (Δ⁹-THC) from C. indica and erucylamide and octasiloxane hexamethyl from C. colocynthis exhibited insecticidal properties, which might be responsible for aphid mortality. However, A. argyi was evaluated for the first time against B. brassicae. It was concluded that all the plant extracts possessed significant insecticidal properties and could be introduced as botanical insecticides after field evaluations.

Pesticide Residues and Health Risk Assessment in Tomatoes and Lettuces from Farms of Metropolitan Region Chile

Over the last years, the detection of pesticide residues in the official food surveillance programs of Chile has been increased, mainly in fresh vegetables such as tomatoes and lettuces. The Metropolitana Region of Chile presents the highest detections in the country. The lack of evaluations of toxicological risks in human health have increased uncertainty of the potential effects of pesticides exposures in the Chilean population. This research aims to determinate health risks assessment of pesticide residues associated to tomatoes and lettuces produced in Metropolitana Region. The findings of this study reveal that tomatoes and lettuces cultivated in the MR show more than 50% of samples with one or multiple pesticides residues. From the total samples, 16% were over the Chilean Maximum Residue Levels (MRLs). The main pesticides detected in tomatoes and lettuces were methamidophos, methomyl, difenoconazole, cyprodinil and boscalid. The results obtained using the official data of the Ministry of Health of Chile (MINSAL) compared to the World Health Organization (WHO), describe relevant risks through the Estimated Daily Intakes (EDI), Hazard Quotients (HQ) and Hazard Index (HI) for the Chilean population due to high concentrations of methamidophos, methomyl and cyprodinil. More restrictions for the use of methamidophos, methomyl, difenoconazole, cyprodinil and boscalid and effective control programs should be implemented in order to mitigate the impacts on the Chilean population.

Evaluation of Pesticide Residues in Vegetables from the Asir Region, Saudi Arabia

This study’s aim was to determine the pesticide residues in 10 different vegetable commodities from the Asir region, Saudi Arabia. We evaluated 211 vegetable samples, collected from supermarkets between March 2018 and September 2018, for a total of 80 different pesticides using ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) and gas chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS) after extraction with a multi-residue method (the QuEChERS method). The results were assessed according to the maximum residue limit (MRL) provided by European regulations for each pesticide in each commodity. All lettuce, cauliflower, and carrot samples were found to be free from pesticide residues. A total of 145 samples (68.7%) contained detectable pesticide residues at or lower than MRLs, and 44 samples (20.9%) contained detectable pesticide residues above MRLs. MRL values were exceeded most often in chili pepper (14 samples) and cucumber (10 samples). Methomyl, imidacloprid, metalaxyl, and cyproconazole were the most frequently detected pesticides. Based on the results of this study, we recommend that a government-supported program for the monitoring of pesticide residues in vegetables be established to promote consumers’ health and achieve sustainable farming systems.

A dual mixture of persistent organic pollutants modifies carbohydrate metabolism in the human hepatic cell line HepaRG

Individuals as well as entire ecosystems are exposed to mixtures of Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs). Previously, we showed, by a non-targeted approach, that the expression of several genes involved in carbohydrate metabolism was almost completely inhibited in the human hepatic cell line HepaRG following exposure to a mixture of the organochlorine insecticide alpha-endosulfan and 2,3,7,8 tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin. In this European HEALS project, which studies the effects of the exposome on human health, we used a Physiologically Based BioKinetic model to compare the concentrations previously used in vitro with in vivo exposures for humans. We investigated the effects of these POPs on the levels of proteins, on glycogen content, glucose production and the oxidation of glucose into CO₂ and correlated them to the expression of genes involved in carbohydrate metabolism as measured by RT-qPCR. Exposure to individual POPs and the mixture decreased the expression of the proteins investigated as well as glucose output (up to 82%), glucose oxidation (up to 29%) and glycogen content (up to 48%). siRNAs that specifically inhibit the expression of several xenobiotic receptors were used to assess receptor involvement in the effects of the POPs. In the HepaRG model, we demonstrate that the effects are mediated by the aryl hydrocarbon receptor and the estrogen receptor alpha, but not the pregnane X receptor or the constitutive androstane receptor. These results provide evidence that exposure to combinations of POPs, acting through different signaling pathways, may affect, more profoundly than single pollutants alone, metabolic pathways such as carbohydrate/energy metabolism and play a potential role in pollutant associated metabolic disorders.

Principles for Construction of Bioluminescent Enzyme Biotests for Analysis of Complex Media

In this study, we formulated the principles of designing bioluminescent enzyme tests for assessing the quality of complex media, which consist in providing the maximum sensitivity to potentially toxic chemicals at a minimal impact of uncontaminated complex media. The developed principles served as a basis for designing a new bioluminescent method for an integrated rapid assessment of chemical safety of fruits and vegetables, which is based on using the luminous bacteria enzymes (NAD(P)H:FMN oxidoreductase and luciferase) as a test system.

A review of environmental and health effects of organochlorine pesticide residues in Africa

Organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) are generally categorized as chlorinated cyclodienes, chlorodiphenylethanes, chlorinated benzenes and cyclohexanes. The presence of OCP residues in foodstuffs, water, soil, sediments, blood serum and air has generated a surge of global interest. This is due to their severe environmental and health ill-effects. OCPs are characteristically described as persistent and bio-accumulating substances prone to long-range transportation. The aim of this present study is to assess the environmental and health risks associated with OCP residues. Published works on OCPs in surface water, sediments and fish samples were reviewed. Possible non-carcinogenic (Hazard Quotient, HQ and Hazard Index, HI) and carcinogenic (Cancer Risk, CR) health effects of OCPs were assessed in fish samples. High concentrations of OCP residues were determined in environmental samples from African countries. The non-carcinogenic health assessment of OCPs in most fish samples from Nigeria revealed HI values greater than 1.0 establishing their adverse effects. The CR data of OCPs in fish samples also showed values higher than the permissible standard of 1.0 × 10^-4 indicating possible development of cancer through fish consumption.

Supramolecular Fluorescence Probe Based on Twisted Cucurbit[14]uril for Sensing Fungicide Flusilazole

The host-guest complex of the common dye, thioflavin T (ThT), and twisted cucurbit[14]uril (tQ[14]) was selected as a fluorescent probe to determine non-fluorescent triazole fungicides, including flusilazole, azaconazole, triadimefon, tebuconazole, tricyclazole, flutriafol, penconazole, and triadimenol isomer A, in an aqueous solution. The experimental results reveal that the ThT@tQ[14] probe selectively responded to flusilazole with significant fluorescence quenching and a detection limit of 1.27 × 10^-8 mol/L. In addition, the response mechanism involves not only a cooperation interaction-ThT occupies a side-cavity of the tQ[14] host and the triazole fungicide occupies another side-cavity of the tQ[14] host-but also a competition interaction in which both ThT and the triazole fungicide occupy the side-cavities of the tQ[14] host.

A study on the prevalence of heavy metals, pesticides, and microbial contaminants and antibiotics resistance pathogens in raw salad vegetables sold in Dhaka, Bangladesh

The presence of undesirable heavy metals, pesticide residues, and microbial contaminants in fresh produces is a worldwide public health concern. This study was undertaken to evaluate the residual pesticides (Diazinon, Malathion, Cypermethrin, Dimethoate, Quinalphos, and Chloropyrofos), heavy metal contamination (Pb, Cd, and Cr), and microbiological quality and safety of 4 common raw salad vegetables (RSVs) samples from different local markets in Dhaka. Results showed the presence of heavy metals residues were within the acceptable limits of local and international standards. None of the above-mentioned pesticides were found in tomato and cucumber samples but presence of Dimethoate was noticed in 13 coriander samples (12.94–158.3 μg/kg) and 7 lettuce samples (9.6–74.8 μg/kg) exceeding the maximum permissible limit of EU guideline. The microbiological analysis showed irrespective of RSV types, total aerobic bacteria was present in higher number (4.0–7.0 log CFU/g), whereas 3.36–5.57 log CFU/g coliform count was recorded. In comparison with retail markets, lower level of total aerobic, and coliform bacterial presence was observed in the samples collected from sophisticated shops, but presence of E. coli and Salmonella spp. were evident in more than 60% samples in these shops. However, 50% and 33% samples from wholesale and retail markets respectively were noticed to be contaminated with Staphylococcus spp. Irrespective of RSV types, isolated E. coli were found resistance to 2–5 different antibiotics, where Salmonella spp. isolated from cucumber and coriander leaves showed resistance against 4–8 different antimicrobials. Therefore, the study results demonstrated that, the presence of residual pesticides, multidrug resistant E. coli and Salmonella spp. in the RSV samples posing concern when consumed raw. The regulatory bodies are expected to monitor and ensure the overall quality standards are in place and practiced by food producers and marketers responsible for handling and distribution of RSVs.

Triazophos-induced toxicity in zebrafish: miRNA-217 inhibits nup43

Triazophos is a highly toxic organophosphorus pesticide, causing acute toxicity to brain tissue, and neurotoxicity and embryotoxicity to animals. Therefore, triazophos is considered as a public health problem due to its acute hazard index. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), a class of endogenous noncoding RNAs, can regulate the expression of target gene(s) by mediating mRNA cleavage or translational repression in organisms exposed to environmental chemicals. We found that nup43 is targeted by miR-217, which was significantly regulated in adult zebrafish (Danio rerio) exposed to triazophos (phenyl-1,2,4-triazolyl-3-(o,o-diethyl thionophosphate)). The expression of nup43 in both mRNA and protein levels was downregulated in a dose-dependent manner upon stimulation with triazophos. A dual luciferase reporter assay demonstrated that miR-217 interacted with the 3'-untranslated regions (3'-UTR) of nup43. The expression of nup43 in both mRNA and protein level was reduced in ZF4 cells when transfected with an miR-217 mimic, but increased when transfected with an miR-217 inhibitor. As a result, nup43 is targeted by miR-217 upon triazophos exposure. We suggest that miR-217 could be a potential toxicological biomarker for triazophos.

Human Risk Assessment of Organochlorine Pesticide Residues in Vegetables from Kumasi, Ghana

The use of organochlorine pesticides has been banned worldwide due to their toxicities. However, some farmers use them illegally because of their potency. The aim of this study was to assess the level of organochlorine pesticide (OCP) residues and the potential health risk associated with vegetables, soil, and groundwater obtained from farms in Ayigya, Nsenie, Gyenyase, and Kentinkrono in Kumasi, Ghana. A total of 15 samples were analyzed using a gas chromatograph equipped with an electron capture detector. The highest mean concentration of 184.10 ± 12.11 µg/kg was recorded for methoxychlor in cabbage from Ayigya. Beta-hexachlorocyclohexane (beta-HCH) recorded the lowest mean concentration of 0.20 ± 0.00 µg/kg in cabbage from Ayigya. The combined risk index showed significant health risk to children than adults. The soil samples mainly contained methoxychlor followed by dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT), aldrin, and other OCPs. Concentrations of total HCHs, total DDTs, and total OCPs in the soil samples ranged from <0.01 to 49.00, <0.01 to 165.81, and <0.01 to 174.91 µg/kg, respectively. Among all HCH and DDT isomers, only β-HCH and p,p′-DDT were detected in some of the water samples. Carcinogenic risk values for β-HCH, aldrin, and p,p′ DDT in the groundwater were found to be >10−6, posing a potentially serious cancer risk to consumers. Moreover, the hazard quotients (HQs) of aldrin exceeded the threshold value of one, indicating that daily exposure is a potential concern.

Pesticide residues in leafy vegetables and human health risk assessment in North Central agricultural areas of Chile

To investigate pesticide residue concentrations and potential human health risk, a study was conducted in 118 leafy vegetable samples collected in 2014-2015 from the North Central agricultural areas of Chile. The pesticide residues were determined using the multiresidue QuEChERS method by gas chromatography as well as high-performance liquid chromatography. The results indicated that 27% of the total samples contained pesticide residues above the maximum residue limits of each active ingredient. The maximum estimated daily intake obtained for carbon disulphide (CS₂), methamidophos, azoxystrobin and cypermethrin were 0.57, 0.07, 0.06 and 0.05 mg kg^-1, respectively, which was higher than their acceptable daily intake. It is concluded that inhabitants of the North Central agricultural area of Chile are not exposed to health risks through the consumption of leafy vegetables with the exception of methamidophos. Nevertheless, the high levels of methamidophos detected in leafy vegetables could be considered a potential chronic health risk.