Occurrence of pesticide residues in mushrooms in Northern Ireland, July 1997-January 1999

The results of surveillance monitoring for pesticides in mushrooms obtained from wholesale cooperatives in Northern Ireland between 1997 and 1999 are presented. Samples (n = 145) were analysed for up to 11 pesticides, resulting in 1575 pesticide/crop combinations. Fifty-five (38%) samples did not contain detectable residues, with 90 (62%) samples containing residues above their respective detection limits. Residues (carbendazim) above the maximum residue level were found in two (<2%) samples. The most frequently detected residues were diflubenzuron and carbendazim present in 47 (32%) and 38 (26%) samples, respectively. There was no significant seasonality in the distribution of the residues.