An evaluation of pesticide residue levels in selected produce and a medical plant in Suriname

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: This specific study objective was to characterize pesticide contamination in produce and medicinal plants in Suriname. DESIGN AND METHODS: Samples were collected during different seasons from several markets in Suriname. The preliminary assessment collected 8 products from the largest market in Paramaribo during the rainy season. Results from the preliminary assessment informed the selection of products for the expanded assessment, which was focused on 7 products sampled from the same market, as well as the largest market in district Wanica during the dry season. Additionally, the vegetable Tannia was sampled at 3 other markets within Paramaribo. All samples were analyzed for pesticide residue with Gas Chromatography Electron Capture Detector. RESULTS: The preliminary assessment conveyed that 12.5% of the samples tested had pesticide residues. The expanded characterization showed that 35.3% of the samples tested positive for pesticide residues. Half of all the samples with pesticide residues exceeded either 1 or more Maximum Residual Levels (MRL) in the expanded assessment. Among the identified residues were Endosulfan and Lindane, which are banned for use in Suriname and are globally being phased out under the Stockholm Convention. CONCLUSIONS: A percentage of selected produce items cultivated in Suriname were contaminated with pesticides. To ascertain the association with adverse health effects, this research will be followed up by a human health assessment that includes a dietary assessment and biomarker testing.