Health Risk Associated with the Consumption of Pineapple Contaminated with Pesticide Residues at Three Sites in South-Eastern Côte D'ivoire

Abstract

Our study focused on analysing 135 pineapple samples, meticulously collected in the departments of Adiaké and Grand-Bassam during two field campaigns between January-February 2024 (dry season) and June-August 2025 (rainy season). The aim is to inform consumers of pineapple fruit in the event of a potential risk of contamination. The samples were prepared and analysed using a Shimadzu HPLC system. The analysis revealed contamination of the fruit by 17 pesticide residues, including four pyrethroids ; six ureas ; three triazines ; two organochlorines (OCPs) and two carbamates. The calibration curves showed excellent linearity, with an average correlation coefficient (R² ≥ 0.997). Recovery of substances ranged from 65 to 125%, and repeatability ranged from 3 to 11%. The consolidated results confirm that pineapple consumption in this region does not constitute an immediate acute or chronic toxic risk factor. However, due to their particular vulnerability and uncertainties regarding cumulative or repeated effects, it remains essential to adopt a precautionary approach to health management and monitoring of pesticide residues in food products.