March 1, 2025 | Journal of Food Composition and Analysis |
The presence of persistent organic pollutants (POPs), particularly organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), in tropical fruits and soils from Antioquia was assessed in a study conducted by researchers from the University of Antioquia, Colombia. These pollutants are known to persist in the environment, accumulate in the food chain, and pose potential health risks, even at low concentrations.
The study analyzed 56 fruit samples—including Hass avocado, cape gooseberry, and purple passion fruit—and 32 soil samples from eight farms between March 2023 and January 2024. Gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry was used for chemical analysis. Trace levels of heptachlor and gamma-chlordane were detected in Hass avocado and purple passion fruit. Additionally, 18.8% of soil samples contained detectable levels of 4,4′-DDT, with higher concentrations than its degradation product 4,4′-DDE. The 4,4′-DDT/4,4′-DDE ratios indicated a possible technical dicofol source. PCBs were not found in fruits but were detected in the same proportion of soil samples.
Health risk assessments showed hazard quotients below 1.0 and cancer risk estimates below accepted thresholds, suggesting no significant health risk from fruit consumption. The study emphasizes the need for continued environmental monitoring to ensure food safety and promote responsible agricultural practices in tropical production regions.
