Comprehensive Screening Of Pesticide Residues In Fruits Using LC-MS/MS Technique

Kamleshwari Sahu; Prashant Mundeja; Joyce Rai

doi:10.69980/redvet.v25i1.1948

Kamleshwari Sahu
Prashant Mundeja
Joyce Rai

DOI: https://doi.org/10.69980/redvet.v25i1.1948

Keywords: Pesticide residues, LC-MS/MS, QuEChERS, food safety, fruit analysis.

Abstract

The widespread use of pesticides in modern agriculture has raised growing concerns over food safety and potential health risks associated with pesticide residues in fruits. This study aimed to develop and validate a robust liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method for the simultaneous identification and quantification of multiple pesticide residues in selected fruit matrices. The method was optimized using the QuEChERS (Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged, and Safe) extraction technique combined with dispersive solid-phase extraction (d-SPE) cleanup, ensuring efficient removal of matrix interferences and enhancing analytical accuracy. Target compounds including imidacloprid, acetamiprid, and chlorpyrifos were detected across different fruit samples such as musk melon, orange, and grapes. The method demonstrated high sensitivity, specificity, and reproducibility, with well-resolved chromatographic peaks and consistent retention times. All detected residues were within their respective maximum residue limits (MRLs) established by regulatory authorities, confirming the safety of the analyzed fruit samples. The results underscore the method’s applicability for routine monitoring of pesticide residues in complex fruit matrices, supporting regulatory compliance and public health protection. Continued surveillance using such validated analytical tools is essential to ensure food safety and mitigate risks associated with chronic pesticide exposure.

Author Biographies

Kamleshwari Sahu

^{School of Sciences, MATS University, Raipur}

Prashant Mundeja

School of Sciences, MATS University, Raipur

Joyce Rai

Chhattisgarh Council of Science and Technology, Raipur

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