Phytosanitary Practices and Pesticide Levels in Fresh and Dried Mangoes Produced in Burkina Faso

Pesticides are used to control fruit flies and other potential crop pests, particularly mango in Burkina Faso. Pesticides are a potential health hazard for users and consumers and are a major constraint to the export and commercialization of mangoes. The objective of this study was to evaluate phytosanitary practices in orchards and pesticide residue levels in four varieties of fresh and dried mangoes (Amelie, Brooks, Kents and Lippens) produced in four localities in Burkina Faso in order to determine their health impact on consumers. Surveys on pesticide use and monitoring of phytosanitary practices were carried out among 16 orchard owners in the localities of Bobo-Dioulasso, Orodara, Toussiana and Banfora, a high mango production area. Also, a total of 120 samples, including 60 samples of fresh mangoes and dried 60 samples of dried mango were collected. A multi-residue method was developed to detect pesticide levels in the collected samples by gas chromatography with a micro-electron capture detector. The study revealed the use of unauthorized pesticides, often specifically for other crops, and a monitoring trapping network in the orchards against insects. 34 chemical pesticides were detected in 120 samples of all mango varieties collected. Pesticide residues were detected in 72% of the samples, and of the positive samples, 48.52% contained concentrations above the maximum residue limit permissibility. Organochlorine pesticide residues were present in fresh mangoes (60.5%) and a total of fifteen active compounds were detected in dried mangoes. The very poor management and use of pesticides found in these orchards could pose a threat to the productivity of natural ecosystems and the health of producers, processors and consumers. Awareness raising and training of producers on the knowledge of the risks linked to the use of pesticides and good practices are necessary to preserve the health of all.