Organophosphorus pesticide residues in tomatoes: a case of Mlali and Doma wards in Mvomero district, Morogoro
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Date
2024
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Tanzania Journal of Agricultural Sciences
Abstract
Extensive pesticide use poses a significant challenge to Tanzania's horticulture industry,
particularly affecting the leading tomato producer, the Morogoro region. This study focused on
assessing organophosphorus pesticide residues in tomatoes from Mlali and Doma divisions in
the Mvomero district of Morogoro. A total of 40 samples were collected from both farms and
markets for analysis, utilizing Gas Chromatography with Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) for extract
analysis. Statistical Analysis Software (SAS) Version 9.1 was employed for data analysis. The study
identified six organophosphorus pesticides, with concentrations in the following order: pirimiphos
methyl > diazinon > fenitrothion > dimethoate > profenofos > chlorpyrifos. Pirimiphos methyl
levels ranged from 3.32±0.03 to 9.53±0.05 μg/kg in Mlali samples and 0.20±0.01 to 6.33±0.03 μg/
kg in Doma samples. Chlorpyrifos was detected in the lowest concentrations across all samples.
Interestingly, higher pesticide levels were found in market samples compared to those from farms,
suggesting potential misuse post-harvest and during distribution. This misuse could have severe
consequences for tomato consumers, including both carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic effects.
The study underscores the importance of educating farmers on the proper use of pesticides and the
potential adverse effects resulting from their misuse. Addressing this issue is crucial for ensuring
the safety of tomatoes in the market and protecting consumers from harmful effects associated with
pesticide residues.
Description
Journal Article
Keywords
Tomatoes, Pyrimiphos methyl, Analytes, Gas chromatography, Hazardous effects