Evaluating pesticide residues in Apis mellifera honey from an intensive agricultural region

The quality of beekeeping products is influenced by the availability and composition of bee flora, as well as by agricultural activities near apiaries. This study investigated pesticide residues in Apis mellifera honey from subsistence farming areas surrounded by soybean and corn monocultures. The pollen spectrum of the samples was analyzed in relation to flowering plants across three distinct periods of the year. The QuEChERS method was used for sample preparation. Glyphosate and aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA) were quantified using HPLC-FD, and confirmatory screening for 75 pesticide residues was performed using LC-QTOF MS system. Glyphosate and AMPA were simultaneously detected in 45% of the samples (n = 44), and 25% exceeded the European Union maximum residue limit for glyphosate in honey (50 µg kg−1). Confirmatory screening identified six pesticide residues banned in the European Union and one banned in Brazil. Pollen analysis suggested that contamination may not be directly associated with bee visits to treated crops. The contamination is likely linked to indirect sources, including non-target plants and environmental exposure, particularly from pesticide drift. These findings highlight risks to honey quality and the need for improved monitoring and regulation.