Analytical method development and multi-residue analysis of pesticides in Indian Black Tea with implications for food safety and consumer protection

Selvaraj, Mithilaa and Mathew, Mathen and Nambiar, Sindhu R (2025) Analytical method development and multi-residue analysis of pesticides in Indian Black Tea with implications for food safety and consumer protection. Journal of Food Composition and Analysis, 148 (4). ISSN 0889-1575

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Abstract

A modified QuEChERS method was developed and validated for efficient extraction and accurate quantification of pesticide residues in black tea using GC-MS/ECD and LC-MS/MS techniques. Optimization of the clean-up sorbent composition, particularly the proportion of graphitized carbon black, significantly improved recovery efficiency. The method showed acceptable linearity, selectivity, trueness, precision, recovery, limits of quantification, and measurement uncertainty, meeting internationally recognized validation criteria. Using this approach, 36 commercial black tea samples from India were analyzed for 78 pesticide residues, including those regulated by FSSAI. Eleven pesticides were detected in 28 samples, with monocrotophos most frequent, followed by acetamiprid, acephate, imidacloprid, cypermethrin, and captafol. Methomyl, dinotefuran, simazine, 4,4′-DDT, and γ-BHC appeared in fewer than 10 % of samples. Although 26 samples exceeded Indian MRLs, none surpassed Codex Alimentarius limits. Dietary risk assessment based on Estimated Daily Intake, Hazard Quotient, and Hazard Index values indicated negligible acute risk for adults and children. However, the recurring detection of multiple residues, even at trace levels, suggests potential chronic exposure concerns. Continuous monitoring and the adoption of safer pest management strategies are essential to safeguard consumer health.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Indian black tea LC-MS/MSGC-ECDPesticide residue analysisFood compositionModified QuEChERS method
Subjects:	500 Natural Sciences and Mathematics > 04 Chemistry and Allied Sciences > 26 Pesticide Chemistry 600 Technology > 07 Beverage Technology > 08 Tea
Divisions:	Food Safety Analytical Quality Control Lab
Depositing User:	Mr Pravi Raj
Date Deposited:	10 Nov 2025 11:14
Last Modified:	10 Nov 2025 11:14
URI:	http://ir.cftri.res.in/id/eprint/20069

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