Bulletin of the Chemical Society of Ethiopia, cilt.39, sa.8, ss.1451-1464, 2025 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
This study investigates the presence of pesticide residues in 87 cow milk samples collected from Uşak and surrounding regions, focusing on four commonly used agricultural chemicals: imazalil, acetamiprid, 2,4-dimethylamine salt (2,4-DMA), and tebuconazole. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was employed to simultaneously detect and quantify these pesticides. The results indicated that while tebuconazole, 2,4-DMA, and acetamiprid were detected in a limited number of milk samples, imazalil was found in the majority, with the highest concentration recorded at 6.32 mg/L. Although this level does not present an immediate risk to human health, prolonged exposure and accumulation of imazalil in the body may lead to adverse effects, such as carcinogenicity and endocrine disruption. Consequently, regular monitoring of pesticide residues in animal-derived food products is imperative to ensure food safety and safeguard public health. The findings of this study underscore the necessity for continuous surveillance of pesticide levels in the food chain to mitigate potential health risks. Ensuring the responsible use of pesticides through appropriate regulatory measures is crucial for both environmental and public health protection. This research highlights the importance of maintaining rigorous standards in agricultural practices to prevent harmful effects from pesticide exposure.