Determination of pesticide residues in commercial fruit juices by LC-MS/MS and assessment of exposure risks

Food safety is a critical issue in protecting public health. The amount of pesticides commonly used in agricultural production and the associated long-term costs are one of the main risks in this area. The risk of exposure to pesticide residues is particularly high for vulnerable groups such as children, and this becomes even more significant for frequently consumed products such as fruit juices. This study was conducted to determine the persistence of pesticide residues in commercially available fruit juices produced in Türkiye and to identify the potential impact of these residues on human health through acute and chronic risk assessments. A total of 460 pesticide active ingredients were analyzed in 70 different fruit juice samples from Bursa province. Based on the analysis performance, pesticide expenditure efficiency in orange, pomegranate, and grape juices was higher than in other fruit juices. The most frequently detected pesticides included acetamiprid, spirotetramat, pyrimethanil, and imazalil. The risk assessment determined the time it takes for some pesticides to reach safe levels for both acute and chronic exposure, particularly for children. These findings indicate that pesticide residues persist in fruit juices and may pose a health risk, particularly for those with sensitive separation. The studies highlight the importance of developing good agricultural practices, legislation, and effective controls to address pesticide contamination.