Determination of chlorpyrifos and hexythiazox pesticide residues in tomatoes and cucumbers in Sari

To reduce the disadvantages caused by pests and diseases in agricultural production chemical compounds called pesticides are used. Pesticides could contaminate agricultural products due to indiscriminate spraying. On the other hand, sprayed products may have been harvested and marketed before passing the currence period. In this study, Chlorpyrifos and Hexythiazox pesticide residues on tomato and cucumber were investigated. Tomatoes and cucumbers were grown and sprayed. After 1 hour, 1, 3, 5, 7 and 10 days samples were taken to the lab to get measured. Some samples were purchased from the market separately and all samples were transfered to the laboratory. Pesticide residues were extracted from the samples by Quchers method with a few changes. The obtained extract, after compression and adequate treatment was measured by HPLC. Data were analyzed by SPSS software (variance analysis). Comparison of means was done by Duncan test. In all the samples which were purchased from markets, at 95% confidence interval pesticide residues were above MRL (Maximum Residue Limit). In samples sprayed with Chlorpyrifos, pesticide residues were above permitted limit up to day 7 and after that the numbers dropped below permitted limit. However, in samples treated with Hexythiazox, pesticide residues did not reach permitted limit until the tenth day. The results showed that in tomato and cucumber cases, applying pesticides should be done more carefully.

Keywords:

Tomato , Cucumber , Chlorpyrifos , Hexythiazox , HPLC