Persistence and Dissipation Kinetics of λ-Cyhalothrin in Okra Fruits and Soil

Abstract

Understanding pesticide residue levels in food items and soil is crucial for ensuring food safety. In this context, a study on persistence and dissipation kinetics of λ-cyhalothrin residues in okra fruits and soil was conducted for two consecutive years. λ-cyhalothrin was applied in okra at the recommended dose (15 g a.i. ha-¹) and double dose (30 g a.i. ha-¹). Okra fruit and soil samples were collected at different intervals after second spray and the residues were estimated using GC-MS/MS. The initial residue level in okra fruits was higher at double dose and declined gradually falling below the limit of quantification (0.01 mg kg-¹) within 7 to 10 days of application. Dissipation followed first-order kinetics, with half-life of 2.17 to 2.43 days. In soil, the initial residues dropped below the limit of quantification within 3 to 5 days of application. Since the initial residue levels in both okra fruits and soil were below the corresponding EU–MRL (0.2 mg kg-1), λ-cyhalothrin can be safely used in okra cultivation.