Evaluation of the levels of pesticide residues in wheat and soil

Abstract

We know that the use of some types of pesticides is restricted throughout the world because of their harmful effects on the environment and health. Within the scope of the present study, pesticides used in Turkey and the potential for their residues to accumulate in the soil were investigated. The amount of residue in wheat was determined as ?g/kg, while that in the soil were determined as mg/kg. On average, 0.003 mg/kg residue was observed in the soil. Although biphenyl residue in wheat was 8.821 ?g/kg, isodrin residue in soil was 0.01 mg/kg. Although the values do not exceed the limits, maintaining levels close to the limits should be considered. These harmful compounds can survive for several years in the environment without degrading. This suggests their potential to accumulate in the ecosystem and, subsequently, in the food chain; therefore, these toxic pollutants must be used with discretion by conscientious scientists who are experts in pesticide use and their toxicity. When used in agriculture, those pesticides should be chosen that have the least environmental impact. Necessary precautions should be taken by comparing the amount of pesticide residue left in the soil and the cultivated products with limited values for specific periods. © by PSP