Coumaphos residues in Kosovar honey: Implications for food safety and public health.

Abstract

Background: The rampant occurrence of Varroa mites in honeybee hives has resulted in the significant application of chemical acaricides, prompting concerns regarding pesticide residue contamination in honey and its effects on food safety and public health.

Aim: This study aimed to examine the presence and concentrations of coumaphos pesticide residues in honey produced by individual beekeepers in the Peja area of Kosovo.

Method: Forty honey samples were gathered and examined using gas chromatography with an electron capture detector. The method validation showed acceptable performance, with recovery rates ranging from 78.2% to 98.0%. The detection limits varied between 0.001 and 0.168 µg/kg, whereas the quantification limits were 0.003 µg/kg for flumethrin and 0.005 µg/kg for coumaphos.

Results: Pesticide residues were found in 11 (27.5%) of 40 samples. Coumaphos was the sole found pesticide, with levels ranging from 3.4 to 39.1 µg/kg. Among the contaminated samples, 35.3% surpassed the European Union Maximum Residue Levels, indicating possible hazards to honey safety and adherence to regulations.

Conclusion: Acaricides used inside hives are the main cause of pesticide contamination in honey. Ongoing evaluation of pesticide residues and focused educational initiatives for beekeepers regarding suitable hive management techniques are recommended to improve honey safety and safeguard consumer health.