Assessment of Dichlorvos and Endosulfan Pesticide Residue Levels in Selected Fruits and Vegetables Sold in Some Major Markets in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria

Abstract

Pesticides are used to increase the yield of agricultural products. They are very hazardous and toxic for organisms as well as for humans but when used properly, they constitute an important input in fruits and vegetable production. The application of different pesticides results in the contamination of soil, water and food. These pesticide residues are dangerous for environment and human health too. Different classes of pesticides are used on the basis of their active ingredients and thereby necessitated the need to monitor its accumulation on the fruits and vegetables. Thus, the aim of the study was to determine the residues of some pesticides in fruits and vegetables purchased from various markets in Ibadan, Oyo State.  A selection of oranges, cucumber, jute leaf, bitter leaf, banana, African spinach and fluted pumpkin leaf was purchased from four major markets in Ibadan. Extraction of the samples was carried out using a mixture of chloroform; methanol; orthophosphoric acid to determine the residual concentration of pesticides. Ultraviolet-Visible Spectrophotometer was used for quantitative analysis. The results showed that Ccucumber had the highest concentration of dichlorvos (4.98±0.02) µg/kg while banana had lowest level of endosulfan 0.77±0.02 µg/kg. All values were all below the maximum residual limit (MRLs) and European Union (EU) set for vegetables and soil by the Codex 2009 (WHO and FAO). These results showed that the fruits and vegetables from these major markets in Ibadan are safe for human consumption. However, there is a need for continuous monitoring so as to guide the usage of pesticides.