Risk assessment of pesticide residues in vegetables cultivated in selected farmlands in Kaa community, Ogoni, Rivers State, Niger-Delta

Abstract

Pesticide application is being employed in modern agricultural procedures for growing crops. Their usage has the potential to have catastrophic consequences for both the environment and human health. The study was thus carried out to examine the amounts of pesticide residues in vegetables - fluted pumpkin and waterleaf (Telfairia occidentalis L. and Talinum triangular) samples. Vegetables - fluted pumpkin and waterleaf samples from six farmlands in Kaa, an Ogoni community in Rivers States, Nigeria were collected. Vegetables-fluted pumpkin and waterleaf samples were extracted and analyzed using GC-MS for the presence of pesticide residues. Risk assessment was carried out using different risk index models. The results of the analysis showed that out of 16 pesticides tested, 11 were detected in fluted pumpkin and waterleaf samples in the range of non-detectable (ND) to 10.65 mg/kg and 11.25 mg/kg respectively. The highest concentrations, 10.65 mg/kg and 11.25 mg/kg were notably observed for Pendimethalin while several pesticides, including Methomyl, Acetamiprid, α-Lindane, Cypermethrin, and λ-Cyhalothrin, were not detected in the samples in any of the various sampling locations. The residue level of pendimethalin in fluted pumpkin and waterleaf was found to be above the limit of quantification (0.05 mg/kg). However, the levels and application of pesticides especially Pendimethalin should be monitored and minimized since it is frequently used to control weeds in order not to interfere with the food chain.