Monitoring pesticide residues in rice plants

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 102 views

Analysis of Organophosphate Pesticide Residues (Dimetoat and Chlorpiration) in Rice Plants in Deli Serdang Regency

Introduction

The use of pesticides in agriculture, particularly in the cultivation of rice plants in Deli Serdang Regency, is a common practice to control pests and ensure a high yield. However, the use of pesticides can have a significant impact on the environment and human health. One type of pesticide that is widely used is organophosphate compounds, such as dimetoat and chlorpirifos, which have high efficiency in controlling pests. However, the presence of pesticide residues in food products can pose a risk to human health and the environment. Therefore, it is essential to analyze the level of pesticide residues in rice plants to ensure the safety of food consumption.

Background

Pesticides are widely used in agriculture to control pests and diseases that can damage crops. However, the use of pesticides can have a negative impact on the environment and human health. Organophosphate compounds, such as dimetoat and chlorpirifos, are commonly used pesticides that can persist in the environment and contaminate soil, water, and air. The presence of pesticide residues in food products can pose a risk to human health, particularly if consumed in large quantities or over an extended period.

Methodology

A study was conducted to measure the content of dimetoat residues and chlorpirifos in rice plants in several villages in Deli Serdang Regency. The analysis was carried out using the gas chromatography method with a fested photometric detector. The results show that from the sample taken, there is a difference in residual levels between different locations.

Results

From the results of the analysis, it was found that in rice plants from Penara Village, Tanjung Morawa District, there was no detected residue content in Dimetoat or Chlorpiration. Conversely, in rice plants from Durian Village, Pantai Labu District, there are levels of dimetoat of 0.736 mg/kg, while chlorpirifos are not detected. In other villages such as Beringin Village, Beringin District, chlorpirifos levels are detected at 0.232 mg/kg, while in the time it is not detected. Likewise, in the village of Aras Kabu, Deli Serdang District, identified 0.292 mg/kg chlorpirifos, while Dimetoat was not found again.

Discussion

All levels of pesticide residues detected far below the maximum residue limit (BMR) set for rice. In other words, the results of this analysis show that rice plants originating from local are still safe for consumption by the community. However, although the analysis results show residues below the threshold, it is essential to keep paying attention to the use of pesticides wisely and according to the rules so that the negative impacts for consumers and the environment can be minimized.

Conclusion

From the point of view of health and the environment, the existence of pesticides, although within a safe limit, should be watched out for. Excessive consumption or exposure to pesticides in the long run still has the potential to cause a negative impact on human health. In addition, pesticide residues that pollute soil and water can have an impact on local ecosystems and the health of other organisms. Therefore, there is a need for awareness and education to farmers regarding the use of responsible pesticides and more environmentally friendly agricultural techniques.

Recommendations

Thus, although the results of the analysis show that rice products from Deli Serdang Regency are safe for consumption, precise prevention and education steps must be prioritized. This kind of research is important to be carried out on an ongoing basis to ensure that the use of pesticides does not interfere with public health and environmental sustainability.

Future Research Directions

Future research should focus on the following areas:

Monitoring pesticide residues in rice plants: Regular monitoring of pesticide residues in rice plants is essential to ensure the safety of food consumption.
Development of environmentally friendly agricultural techniques: The development of environmentally friendly agricultural techniques can help reduce the use of pesticides and minimize their impact on the environment.
Education and awareness: Education and awareness programs for farmers regarding the use of responsible pesticides and more environmentally friendly agricultural techniques are essential to promote sustainable agriculture practices.

Limitations of the Study

The study has several limitations, including:

Limited sample size: The study only analyzed a limited number of rice samples from several villages in Deli Serdang Regency.
Limited analytical methods: The study only used gas chromatography with a fested photometric detector to analyze pesticide residues.
Limited data on pesticide use: The study did not collect data on pesticide use in the study area, which can limit the interpretation of the results.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the study found that pesticide residues in rice plants from Deli Serdang Regency are generally below the maximum residue limit (BMR) set for rice. However, the presence of pesticide residues in food products can pose a risk to human health and the environment. Therefore, it is essential to continue monitoring pesticide residues in rice plants and promote sustainable agriculture practices to minimize the negative impacts of pesticide use.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Organophosphate Pesticide Residues in Rice Plants

Q: What are organophosphate pesticides?

A: Organophosphate pesticides are a type of pesticide that is commonly used to control pests and diseases in agriculture. They are widely used in the cultivation of rice, wheat, and other crops. However, the use of organophosphate pesticides can have a negative impact on the environment and human health.

Q: What are dimetoat and chlorpirifos?

A: Dimetoat and chlorpirifos are two types of organophosphate pesticides that are commonly used in agriculture. They are used to control pests and diseases in crops, but their use can also lead to the presence of pesticide residues in food products.

Q: What are the risks associated with pesticide residues in food products?

A: The presence of pesticide residues in food products can pose a risk to human health and the environment. Pesticide residues can contaminate soil, water, and air, and can also be ingested through the consumption of contaminated food products.

Q: How can pesticide residues be detected in food products?

A: Pesticide residues can be detected in food products using various analytical methods, including gas chromatography and mass spectrometry. These methods can detect the presence of pesticide residues in food products and help to ensure the safety of food consumption.

Q: What is the maximum residue limit (MRL) for pesticide residues in rice?

A: The maximum residue limit (MRL) for pesticide residues in rice is set by regulatory agencies to ensure the safety of food consumption. The MRL is the maximum amount of pesticide residue that is allowed in a food product.

Q: What are the consequences of exceeding the MRL for pesticide residues in rice?

A: Exceeding the MRL for pesticide residues in rice can have serious consequences for human health and the environment. It can lead to the contamination of soil, water, and air, and can also pose a risk to human health through the consumption of contaminated food products.

Q: How can farmers reduce the use of pesticides and minimize their impact on the environment?

A: Farmers can reduce the use of pesticides and minimize their impact on the environment by adopting sustainable agriculture practices, such as crop rotation, integrated pest management, and organic farming. These practices can help to reduce the need for pesticides and minimize their impact on the environment.

Q: What is the role of regulatory agencies in ensuring the safety of food consumption?

A: Regulatory agencies play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of food consumption by setting maximum residue limits (MRLs) for pesticide residues in food products. They also monitor the use of pesticides and enforce regulations to ensure that food products are safe for consumption.

Q: How can consumers reduce their exposure to pesticide residues in food products?

A: Consumers can reduce their exposure to pesticide residues in food products by choosing organic or locally grown produce, washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly, and avoiding foods that are high in pesticide residues. They can also support farmers who use sustainable agriculture practices and reduce their use of pesticides.

Q: What is the future of pesticide use in agriculture?

A: The future of pesticide use in agriculture is uncertain, but it is likely that the use of pesticides will continue to decline as consumers become more aware of the risks associated with pesticide residues in food products. The use of sustainable agriculture practices, such as organic farming and integrated pest management, is likely to increase as consumers demand safer and more sustainable food products.