Detection and Validation of Pesticide Residue Levels in Tomatoes Grown in the Mediterranean Region

In this study, tomatoes grown in the Mediterranean region were evaluated for pesticides and health risks. Tomato samples were collected from 30 farmers in the region. Pesticide residues were determined by Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS / MS) method. In 74% of the samples, pesticide residues were not found, whereas in 18% of the samples, an average of 3.289 mg kg-1 of dimethoate, chlorpyrifos 3.528 mg kg-1 and endosulfan were found to be 2.854 mg kg-1. Methomyl 0.487-0.687 mg kg-1 was found in 4 samples, above which only the residual level detectable level (LOQ) was detected, and acetamiprid was found between 0.584-0.682 mg kg-1 in 4 samples. However, these values are below the Turkish Food Codex (TGK) and European Union (EU) Maximum Residual Limits (MRL). It is recommended to raise awareness of good practices for pesticide application and food safety to protect public health from pesticides