A Fast and Validated GC-MS/MS Method for Simultaneous Determination of 15 Pesticide Residues in Honey and Associated Human Health Risks: An Indicator of Environmental Pollution

Mohd Altaf Khan ¹, Navdeep Singh ¹, Rizwana Khurshid ²

⁰Department of Chemistry, School of Chemical Engineering and Physical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India.

Biomedical Chromatography : Bmc +

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January 2, 2026

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

Pesticide residues, including organophosphates like omethoate, were found in Kashmir honey. While generally safe, potential risks for infants and cumulative effects warrant caution.

Area Of Science

Environmental Science
Food Safety
Analytical Chemistry

Background

Honeybees are vital pollinators and can accumulate environmental contaminants, including pesticides, in honey.
Pesticide exposure in agricultural areas poses a risk to honeybee health and honey quality.
Understanding pesticide contamination in honey is crucial for consumer safety and beekeeping industry sustainability.

Purpose Of The Study

To assess the levels and types of pesticide residues in honey samples from the Kashmir region.
To identify specific pesticides, particularly those used in local agriculture, present in honey.
To evaluate potential human health risks associated with pesticide contamination in honey.

Main Methods

Collected 30 honey samples between 2022 and 2023 from migratory apiaries.
Utilized the QuEChERS (Quick, Easy, Cheap, Rugged, Effective) method for sample preparation.
Quantified pesticide residues using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry/Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS/MS).

Main Results

Identified a total of 15 different pesticide residues in the analyzed honey samples.
Organophosphate compounds were the most prevalent class of detected pesticides.
Significantly elevated levels of insecticides, such as omethoate and chlorpyrifos-methyl, were found in honey from apple orchard regions.

Conclusions

Honey from migratory apiaries in the Kashmir region is widely contaminated with pesticide residues.
While immediate human health risks appear low for most consumers, potential risks exist for infants and from cumulative exposure.
Precautionary measures are recommended to mitigate potential health concerns related to pesticide residues in honey.

Keywords:

environmental contaminants foraging insecticides organophosphates