Analysis of Multi-Residue Pesticides in Vegetable Samples Using Solid-Phase Micro-Extraction (SPME) Coupled to Gas Chromatography-Electron-Capture Detector (GC-ECD)

A fast, simple, solvent less and inexpensive sample preparation method based on Head space solid-phase micro extraction (HS-SPME) coupled to gas chromatography-electron-capture detector (GC-ECD) is proposed for the determination of mix pesticide residues from vegetable samples. Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS, 100 μm) fiber was used in this study. The mix pesticides (24 nos.) including organochlorines (15), organophosphates (06) and synthetic pyrethriods (03) were analysed in the vegetable samples (Cabbage, Tomato, Cauliflower, Chilli, Okra, Brinjal, Bottle gourd, Cucumber, Beetroot, Spinach, and Radish) collected from in and around of Lucknow city, India. Present study revealed the presence of HCH, DDT, methylparathion, malathion, chlorpyrifos, monocrotophos, endosulfan, cypermethrin, fenvalerate pesticides. Pesticides residue levels were compared with MRL fixed by Prevention of Food Adulteration Act (PFA), Govt. of India 1954. The method detection limits were in a linearity range of 0.003 - 0.024 mg/kg. A recovery percent varies from 86.1 to 96.4% with relative standard deviation (RSD) of 14%. The outcomes of the present study point towards the crucial need of implementing strict government’s rules related to food safety in order to put check on these kinds of health hazardous food contamination.