Determination of Pesticide Residue in Bottle Gourd (Lagenaria Siceraria) Using Liquid Gas Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry

Abstract

The increasing use of pesticides in agriculture, particularly in vegetable cultivation, has raised significant concerns about food safety. This thesis focuses on the bottle gourd (Lagenaria siceraria), a vegetable known for its high nutritional and medicinal value, yet susceptible to pest infestations that often necessitate pesticide application. The study aims to evaluate the extent of pesticide residues in bottle gourd using advanced analytical techniques, specifically Liquid Gas Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry. The research begins with a thorough assessment of the morphological and physiological impacts of insect-pest infestations on bottle gourd crops. This analysis underscores the challenges faced by farmers in managing pests and the consequent reliance on chemical pesticides. Following this, the study meticulously quantifies the levels of pesticide residues in the harvested crops. The findings reveal concerning levels of residual pesticides, which exceed safety thresholds in some cases, thereby posing potential health risks to consumers. In addition to identifying the types and concentrations of pesticide residues, the study investigates the effectiveness of various decontamination methods, such as washing and processing, in reducing these residues. The results indicate that while certain methods can significantly lower residue levels, they are not universally effective across all pesticide types. This research highlights the urgent need for improved regulatory oversight and the adoption of safer, more sustainable agricultural practices. It also provides practical recommendations for consumers and producers to mitigate the risks associated with pesticide residues. By contributing to the body of knowledge on pesticide contamination in vegetables, this thesis offers valuable insights that could inform future policies and promote public health