Monitoring of Organochlorine Pesticide Residues in Summer Season Fruits and Vegetables Using Gas Chromatography and Human Health Risk Assessment.

Organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) continue to pose major food-safety challenges in developing nations owing to their environmental persistence, bioaccumulative character, and adverse toxicological effects. The present investigation was designed to quantify selected OCP residues in commonly consumed summer-season fruits-Pineapple (Ananas comosus), Apricot (Prunus armeniaca), Peach (Prunus persica), Sweet lime (Citrus limetta), and Lime (Citrus aurantifolia) along with vegetables such as Green Chilli (Capsicum annuum), Capsicum (Capsicum annuum var. grossum), and Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) procured from local markets of Agra, India. Eight samples were procured and analyzed using GC-ECD techniques. Among the examined pesticides, γ-BHC, β-BHC, chlordane (α, γ) compound, endosulfan-I, methoxychlor, along with trace levels of aldrin and heptachlor were identified in different produce samples. The maximum concentration (0.0134µg/g) of α-Endosulfan (endosulfan-I) was found in Okra, while methoxychlor exhibited notable levels particularly in Green Chilli and Apricot. Measured concentrations were evaluated against established Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs). Dietary exposure was assessed through Hazard Quotient and Hazard Index calculations. Although the majority of quantified residues complied with international Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs), a few items showed cumulative Hazard Index values nearing the permissible limit, highlighting potential long-term dietary exposure concerns. The outcomes emphasize the need for enhanced surveillance, awareness among consumers and farmers, and strict implementation of pesticide regulations to ensure protection of public health.