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Published on: March 3, 2021
Miticide residues in Virginia honeys
1Department of Entomology, Virginia Tech, 324 Price Hall (MC0319), Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA. rfell@vt.edu
Summary
Honey samples from Virginia show no concerning levels of fluvalinate or coumaphos residues. Analysis confirmed that both hive and bottled honey products are free from these common miticide contaminants.
Area of Science:
- Food Safety
- Analytical Chemistry
- Apiculture Science
Background:
- Miticide residues, such as fluvalinate and coumaphos, are a potential concern in honey production.
- Monitoring these residues is crucial for ensuring honey quality and consumer safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the presence and quantify fluvalinate and coumaphos residues in honey samples from Virginia, USA.
- To assess honey safety by comparing detected residue levels against established regulatory limits.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 50 honey samples, including those from apiaries (hives) and commercially bottled products.
- Quantification of fluvalinate and coumaphos using analytical chemistry techniques with a limit of quantification of 0.05 mg/kg.
Main Results:
- No fluvalinate or coumaphos residues were detected above the 0.05 mg/kg limit of quantification in any honey sample.
- Trace levels (<0.05 mg/kg) of coumaphos were found in three hive samples, and fluvalinate in one hive sample.
- All analyzed honey samples, including bottled products, were below the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) tolerance levels.
Conclusions:
- Honey produced and sold in Virginia, USA, is not significantly contaminated with fluvalinate or coumaphos.
- The study supports the safety of local honey regarding these specific miticide residues.
