Assessment of Pesticide Residues on Stored Cereals and Legumes in Major Markets of North-Eastern Nigeria

1Abdulrahman, H.T., 1Umar, A., 2Goniri, A. L., 1Gulani, I. 1Njapdze, R. K. and 3Bukar, A

1Department of Zoology, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Maiduguri
2National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, Maiduguri, Nigeria
3Department of Agronomy and Soil Science, Kashim Ibrahim University, Maiduguri

*Corresponding author’s Email: tati66.ng@gmail.com, doi.org/10.55639/607.020100094


ABSTRACT

The study was conducted to evaluate pesticide residue levels in cereals and legumes from major markets in Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Taraba, and Yobe States in North-eastern Nigeria. Grain/legumes samples were randomly collected and analysed using Gas Chromatography equipped with an Electron Capture Detector (GC-ECD). The concentrations of commonly used pesticides, including cypermethrin, deltamethrin, carbaryl, dichlorvos, and propoxur, were determined and compared with established European Union Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs). The results revealed that several samples, particularly cowpea, maize, and groundnut, contained pesticide residues exceeding permissible limits, with cypermethrin reaching up to 5.3 mg/kg and dichlorvos up to 9.7 mg/kg in Taraba state when compared with other states. Significant variation in residue levels were observed in the study areas. The findings indicate widespread misuse and over-application of pesticides during storage, posing potential risks to food safety and public health. Strengthening regulatory enforcement, promoting safe pesticide handling practices, and routine monitoring of food commodities are necessary to mitigate exposure risks.

KEYWORDS

Pesticides,
Residue,
Cereals,
Legume.

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