Behavior of trifloxystrobin and propineb as combination product in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) and their risk assessment for human health

Abstract

Fungicides have their own unique characteristics and modes of action; a combination formulation [combination product (combi product)] of trifloxystrobin and propineb was applied to tomatoes for their dissipation kinetics and to ensure consumer safety. The combi product was applied at a 10‐day interval with standard (61.25 + 1072.75 g a.i. ha−1) and double (122.5 + 2145.50 g a.i. ha−1) doses. The efficient analytical method was established using the quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe (QuEChERS) approach followed by LC–MS. The maximum residue levels of 0.15 and 0.35 mg kg−1 of trifloxystrobin were detected in tomato fruits immediately after application at standard and double doses, respectively. The corresponding levels of propineb as carbon disulfide were 0.47 and 0.90 mg kg−1, respectively. Considering trifloxystrobin (0.7 mg kg−1) codex maximum residue limit and propineb as dithiocarbamate (3.0 mg kg−1) European Commission maximum residue limit in tomato, a pre‐harvest interval of 1 day can be proposed. The anticipated residue contributions of both fungicides were far less than the acceptable daily intake. The targeted hazard quotient and hazard index were also less than 1 for both fungicides. Furthermore, the theoretical maximum residue contribution was less than its maximum permissible intake, which indicates that the consumption of tomatoes containing the measured value of each fungicide residue could not pose any health risks.