Persistence of metalaxyl residues on tomato fruit using high performance liquid chromatography and QuEChERS methodology

Metalaxyl is a widely used fungicide around the world. Very limited data have been reported concerning the dissipation and residue of metalaxyl in agricultural products. Residues and dissipation rate of metalaxyl were estimated in tomato fruit by HPLC following single application of the fungicide at 262.5 g a.i. ha(-1). The average initial deposit of metalaxyl on tomato fruits was found to be 2.39 mg kg(-1). Residues of metalaxyl dissipated below the maximum residue limit (MRL) of 0.5 mg kg(-1) in 7 days. Half-life (t(1/2)) for degradation of metalaxyl on tomato fruit was observed to be 1.81 days. A waiting period of 7 days is suggested for safe consumption of tomato. The results would be useful for the safe use of metalaxyl and to prevent any health problem to customers. (C) 2012 Production and hosting by Elsevier B.V. on behalf of King Saud University.