Analysis of Selected Pesticide Residues and Heavy Metals in Honey Obtained from Plateau State, Nigeria

Honey bees derive their nutrients from nectars and other plant materials. These naturally available materials are affected by the residual presence of pesticides. The concentration of pesticides in honey comb then reflects the leftover after degradation. In this study, samples of honey were collected from five different farms in Plateau State and analyzed for pesticide residues (atrazine, cypermethrin) and heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Cr, Fe and Mn) using GC-MS and AAS techniques. Results of the analysis indicated that atrazine and cypermethrin were found in the range (0.01 - 0.36 and 0.11 - 0.26) mg/kg, respectively in all the samples. Mn and Fe were found across the samples while Cd was detected only in the sample obtained from Maraban Jos (0.0013 mg/kg). Except Bokkos and Maraban Jos, Pb was detected in other samples. This study revealed that all samples contained the selected pesticide residues above the maximum residue limits recommended by European Union, while concentration of heavy metals in all the samples except Mn was below the maximum concentration limits recommended by Food and Agriculture Organization. The high concentration of pesticide residues in the samples indicates contaminated environment in which the bees fed;therefore intermittent monitoring of the quality of honeys produced would be necessary as this calls for urgent attention.