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Pesticide Residues in Foods in Ghana: A Systematic Review
Wisdom K Ahiabor1, Eric S Donkor1
1Department of Medical Microbiology University of Ghana Medical School Accra Ghana.
Health Science Reports
|December 1, 2025
Summary
Pesticide residues are prevalent in 83.3% of food samples in Ghana, posing significant public health risks. This systematic review highlights the urgent need for improved food safety and agricultural practices to reduce contamination.
Area of Science:
- Food Science
- Environmental Health
- Toxicology
Background:
- Global surge in pesticide use for agricultural productivity.
- Concerns regarding pesticide residues in food and public health impacts in Ghana.
- Pesticide exposure linked to cancers, neurological disorders, and significant mortality.
Purpose of the Study:
- Systematic review of pesticide residues in Ghanaian foods.
- Identify contamination trends and inform food safety strategies.
- Assess public health risks associated with pesticide contamination.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review adhering to PRISMA guidelines.
- Comprehensive database searches (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar).
- Data extraction and analysis from 25 selected studies (2001-2024).
Main Results:
- Pesticide residues detected in 83.3% of 2729 analyzed food samples.
- 50 unique pesticide residues identified, including organochlorines (DDT), organophosphates (Chlorpyrifos), and pyrethroids (Cypermethrin).
- High prevalence of specific pesticide classes indicates widespread contamination.
Conclusions:
- Ghanaian foods exhibit high levels of pesticide residues, posing substantial public health risks.
- Urgent need for strengthened regulatory measures and improved agricultural practices.
- Mitigation strategies are crucial to reduce food contamination and protect public health.
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