Survey of pesticide and heavy metal contamination in fresh vegetables from fresh markets in Mueang District, Phitsanulok Province
Keywords:
Contamination, Fresh markets, Fresh vegetables, Heavy metals, PesticidesAbstract
This study investigated pesticide residues as well as elemental and heavy metal contamination in fresh vegetables sold in 8 fresh markets in Mueang District, Phitsanulok Province, in 2023. The analyzed vegetables, categorized by edible parts, included carrots, garlic, cauliflower, cabbage, and long beans, with a total of 40 samples analyzed, using an Inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometer and gas-chromatography flame photometric detector.
The study revealed that, among the 26 analyzed pesticides, 11 pesticides were detected, with concentrations ranging from not detected (ND) to 0.53 mg/kg. The study found the residue of Methamidophos and Mevinphos in cabbage samples and Monocrotophos in carrot samples, which are chemicals classified under Category 1 hazardous substances, Class 4, as per the Hazardous Substances Act B. E. 2535 (1992), which are prohibited for production, import, export, transit, or possession. The findings highlight the use of these pesticides in fresh vegetable production in the study area. Additionally, the study detected 14 elements and heavy metals from the 26 analyzed elements, with concentrations ranging from ND to 9,658.43 mg/kg. Three heavy metals, Chromium (Cr) and Zinc (Zn) were found in garlic samples, while Copper (Cu) was detected in garlic and long beans. The levels of these metals exceeded the maximum allowable limits for heavy metal residues in food as specified by the National Standard of the People's Republic of China. This study highlights the urgent need for vigilant monitoring and strict regulation of pesticide use and heavy metal contamination in fresh vegetables to ensure compliance with food safety standards and to mitigate and prevent risks to consumers' health.
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