Determination of Pre-Harvest Interval (PHI) of Flupyradifurone Applied on Date Palm Fruits under Jordan Valley Conditions

This project aims to determine the pre-harvest interval (PHI) of the insecticide flupyradifurone applied to date palm fruits under Jordan Valley agro-climatic conditions. The study is designed to generate scientifically robust residue dissipation data to support food safety assessments and regulatory decision-making. Field trials will be conducted on bearing date palm trees following good agricultural practices (GAP), including the recommended application rate and timing of flupyradifurone. Fruit samples will be collected at predefined intervals after application and analyzed using validated analytical methods to quantify residue levels over time. Residue decline kinetics will be evaluated to estimate degradation rates and calculate the PHI required for residues to fall below the applicable maximum residue limits (MRLs). The study follows internationally recognized guidelines for pesticide residue trials and analytical quality control. Results are expected to contribute to locally relevant PHI recommendations for date palm production in arid and semi-arid environments, particularly in the Jordan Valley, and to support evidence-based pesticide risk management and sustainable date palm production.