Occurrence of pesticide residues in fig crops (Ficus carica L.), in Morelos, Mexico

Abstract

The state of Morelos is the main producer of figs in the Mexican Republic, contributing 50% of the national production. Despite the fact that the official regulations in Mexico only allow the use of some pesticides on figs, it is common to find residues of prohibited substances. This work aims to assess the occurrence of pesticide residues in the fig cultivation from 15 different parcels located in Morelos in order to determine their degree of dissipation and the resultant health risk. The fig samples were analyzed using the QuEChERS multi-residue extraction, followed by gas chromatography triple quadrupole mass spectrometer, and ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometer. Nine pesticides were detected in the sampled crops, of which five were above the maximum allowed residue levels. The pesticides with the highest concentrations were thiophanate-methyl (0.733 mg/kg), chlorothalonil (0.445 mg/kg), propamocarb (0.395 mg/kg), and carbendazim (0.313 mg/kg). All Risk Health Index values were less than 1, indicating no risk to human health. However, it is noteworthy that dietary pesticide intakes estimated in this study considered only exposures from fig fruit and did not include other fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy, fish, or meat, among others. These findings suggest the need for a continuous monitoring program for pesticide residues in cultivated vegetables in Morelos.