Original scientific paper
https://doi.org/10.33128/pc.26.1-4.6
Pesticides and mycotoxins in the almond kernel in the ecological conditions of Ravni Kotari – the case of organic farming
Anđelko Vrsaljko
orcid.org/0000-0002-7141-8928
; Sveučilište u Zadru, Odjel za izobrazbu učitelja i odgojitelja, Zadar, Hrvatska
Abstract
Similary to other nuts, almond is considered to be extremely healthy. In this context, the research was conducted in the ecological conditions of the Ravni Kotari region on the presence of pesticide residues and mycotoxins in the seeds of the Ferragnes and Ferraduela almond varieties, as well as in the almond seedling. The study was done in 2022 and it used the most sensitive analytical methods. Following the GC/MS/MS and LC/MS/MS analysis for 402 pesticide residues, the results showed that no pesticide was detected in any of the samples. As far as mycotoxins are concerned, the analysis was carried out for total aflatoxins and the most dangerous aflatoxin AfB1, none of which were ultimately detected in any sample. In addition to all the nutritional, intrinsic and other advantages, this represents a great added value, since mycotoxins have been found in the most productive countries and in numerous stores around the world. The obtained results confirm that almonds can be categorized as functional food in the absence of pesticides and mycotoxins, i.e., the increased intake should be encouraged, since they strengthen immunity and prevent numerous diseases in humans. The research helps create better valorisation of almonds produced in the ecological conditions of Ravni Kotari region, at the same time benefiting manufacturers through price stimulation and consumers through the suggested health benefits.
Keywords
Almond; pesticide; mycotoxines
Hrčak ID:
295743
URI
Publication date:
2.3.2023.
Visits: 329 *