Common pesticides detected in Chili and their roles

Introduction

Chili, also known as chili pepper or Capsicum annuum, is a spicy fruit that belongs to the nightshade family. It is commonly used as a flavoring ingredient in various cuisines around the world. Chillies, despite their fiery reputation, are susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases. To protect their crops, farmers often resort to pesticides. However, some of these pesticides can leave behind residues on the chillies, raising concerns about potential health risks for consumers

https://www.eurofins.in/food-testing/blog/chilli-testing/

Pesticides in Chilli

Increased pesticide use for agricultural yield had resulted in contaminated crops. Pesticides have an impact on the environment and pose a significant health risk to the public.  A recent study on Thiruvananthapuram: The State Agriculture Department has found out that the content of pesticides is higher than the permissible limits in bajji chilli, sambar chilli, green chilli and capsicum being sold in the open market in Kerala. Pesticide content was identified in 157 of the 602 samples collected. Pesticide content in vegetables is reported to be 27.92 percent.

Here are some common pesticides that may be detected in chili peppers and their roles:

Case study

In 2021, the European Commission (EC) released the outcomes of the inaugural coordinated control initiative focusing on the authenticity of herbs and spices. This comprehensive plan, initiated by DG SANTE and conducted across 21 EU member states, Switzerland, and Norway, involved the evaluation of nearly 10,000 analyses covering 1,885 samples. Employing a diverse array of analytical techniques, the Joint Research Centre meticulously scrutinized the authenticity of six different herbs and spices.

The assessment revealed that certain samples were susceptible to adulteration, with rates of concern reported as 17% for pepper, 14% for cumin, 11% for curcuma, 11% for saffron, and 6% for paprika/chilli. The evaluation of the authenticity and purity of herbs and spices adhered to relevant ISO standards. Samples were identified as potentially adulterated if they failed to meet stipulated criteria for extraneous matter and total ash. In response to these findings, the Commission promptly mandated an immediate action plan from industry operators to rectify the situation, recognizing the potential harm to both consumers' well-being and the broader herbs and spices industry, including its legitimate operators.

Regulations and Standards: FSSAI, EU, and USFDA

FSSAI (India):

• The FSSAI has established Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) for over 600 pesticides, including those commonly used on chili peppers.
• The MRLs specify the maximum permissible level of a pesticide residue that can be present in a food commodity, in this case, chili peppers.
• For example, the MRL for chlorpyrifos, a commonly used insecticide, is 2 mg/kg in chili peppers.
• The FSSAI regularly updates its MRL list based on new scientific data and international standards.
• The MRLs for pesticides in chili peppers are listed under Regulation 2.3.1 of the Food Safety and Standards (Maximum Limits for Residues of Pesticides in Food Commodities) Regulations, 2019.
• You can find the specific MRL for chlorpyrifos (2 mg/kg) under Table 2.3.1.
• You can find the complete list of MRLs for pesticides in chili peppers on the FSSAI website: https://www.fssai.gov.in/notifications.php

EU:

• The harmonized MRLs for pesticides in chili peppers are listed in Regulation (EC) No 396/2005 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 February 2005 on maximum residue levels of pesticides in or on certain foodstuffs.
• The EU has established harmonized MRLs for over 500 pesticides, which apply to all member states.
• The MRLs for chili peppers are generally lower than those set by the FSSAI.
• For example, the EU MRL for chlorpyrifos is 0.05 mg/kg in chili peppers.
• The EU also has stricter regulations for the use of certain pesticides, such as endosulfan, which is banned in the EU but still permitted in India.
• You can find the complete list of EU MRLs for pesticides on the European Commission website: https://food.ec.europa.eu/plants/pesticides/eu-pesticides-database_en

USFDA:

• The MRLs for pesticides in chili peppers are listed in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Title 21, Part 109, subpart D.
• The USFDA has established its own set of MRLs for pesticides, which are generally similar to those set by the EU.
• The USFDA also has a tolerance program for pesticides that are not listed in its regulations.
• Tolerances are granted based on a petition from the pesticide manufacturer and a review of the safety data.
• You can find the complete list of USFDA MRLs and tolerances for pesticides on the FDA website: https://www.fda.gov/food/pesticides/pesticide-residue-monitoring-program-reports-and-data
  
  

Mandatory and optional analyses

Mandatory Analyses:

• Pesticide Residue Screening: Use multi-residue methods to screen for a wide range of commonly used pesticides. Employ techniques such as gas chromatography (GC) and liquid chromatography (LC) coupled with mass spectrometry (MS) for accurate detection and quantification.
• Maximum Residue Limit (MRL) Testing: Verify compliance with established MRLs set by regulatory authorities for specific pesticides in chili. Analyse samples using quantitative methods to determine the concentration of individual pesticides.
• Method Validation: Validate the analytical methods used for pesticide analysis to ensure their accuracy, precision, and reliability. Follow international guidelines and standards for method validation.

Optional Analyses:

• Specific Pesticide Analysis: In addition to the multi-residue screening, conduct specific analyses for pesticides commonly used in chili cultivation in the region.
• Metabolite Analysis: Include the analysis of pesticide metabolites, which are the degradation products of pesticides, to assess the persistence and breakdown of pesticides in chili.
• Comprehensive Chemical Analysis: Consider a broader chemical analysis to detect not only pesticides but also other contaminants such as heavy metals, mycotoxins, and microbial contaminants.
• Organic vs. Conventional Comparison: Compare pesticide residues in organic and conventional chili to evaluate the impact of different farming practices on pesticide levels.
• Post-Harvest Analysis: Include analyses post-harvest to monitor changes in pesticide residues during storage and transportation.
  
  

Eurofins role in detecting pesticides in chili

Eurofins can play a significant role in detecting pesticides in chili through various capabilities and services:

1. Comprehensive Analytical Expertise:

• Eurofins has a global network of accredited laboratories equipped with advanced analytical instruments like GC-MS, LC-MS, and NMR.
• They offer a wide range of multi-residue methods (MRMs) targeting diverse groups of pesticides and specific analyses for individual compounds of concern.
• Their expertise covers conventional pesticides, emerging contaminants, and even banned or restricted chemicals.

2. Tailored Testing Solutions:

• Eurofins can tailor their testing programs to meet specific regulatory requirements or customer needs.
• They can advise on the most appropriate analytical methods based on the origin of chili, intended market, and potential risk factors.
• They offer flexible sample handling and reporting, including customized data formats and interpretation based on specific regulations.

3. Quality Assurance and Accreditation:

• Eurofins laboratories adhere to strict quality standards and are accredited by various national and international bodies.
• They participate in proficiency testing programs to ensure the accuracy and reliability of their analytical results.
• Their commitment to quality assurance provides clients with confidence in the results received.

4. Additional Services:

• Eurofins offers additional services beyond analysis, such as:
• Sample collection and logistics
• Consultation on pesticide regulations and compliance
• Residue data analysis and interpretation
• Training and technical support

References

1. https://www.food-safety.com/articles/7452-ec-publishes-survey-findings-of-herbs-and-spices-authenticity
2. https://www.food-safety.com/articles/7452-ec-publishes-survey-findings-of-herbs-and-spices-authenticity
3. https://www.foodsafetymantra.com/regulatory-insight/spices-condiments-and-additives/fssai-regulations-and-guidelines-on
4. PM Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises Scheme HANDBOOK OFPROCESSING OF MIZO CHILLI

Contact Us