Pesticide residues in fruit and vegetables in Hai District, Kilimanjaro Region, Tanzania, and potential health risks

This study assessed the pesticide residue levels and their associated health risks to consumers in green pepper (Capsicum annuum), cucumber (Cucumis sativus), tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), and spinach (Spinacia oleracea) in Hai District, Tanzania. Vegetable and fruit samples were extracted by the QuEChERS method and analysed by GC-MS/MS. Twenty-two pesticides were detected, with seven pesticides—dimethoate (25.8 µg/kg), profenofos (36.7 µg/kg), malathion (59.8 µg/kg), hexaconazole (36.5 µg/kg), triadimenol (56.1 µg/kg), tebuthiuron (27.3 µg/kg), and azinophos ethyl (10.3 µg/kg)—exceeding their MRLs. While assessing potential health risks, four pesticides—profenofos, chlorothalonil, cyhalothrin, and malathion—revealed hazard indices above 1, indicating possible health risks for consumers. Continuous monitoring, proper training on pesticide use, and implementation of risk assessments for pesticides that contribute significantly to health risks are recommended.