Simultaneous multiple determination of pesticide residues in pistachios utilizing a QuEChERS-based method combined with UPLC-MS/MS, GC-MS/MS, and Monte Carlo simulation for health risk assessment.

Pesticides are widely used in agriculture, posing significant food safety challenges. This study examined 120 fresh pistachio samples for 211 pesticide residues. A QuEChERS method was utilized for extracting and cleaning the samples, with analysis performed using gas chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS) and ultra high performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS). Calibration curves showed high linearity (R2 > 0.9961) across concentrations from 0.015 to 0.30 mg/kg. Recovery rates ranged from 78 % to 117 %, with Limits of Detection (LODs) of 0.001-0.003 mg/kg. Seven pesticide residues were detected, including acrinathrin, chlorpyrifos, imidacloprid, and malathion, with some exceeding Maximum Residue Limits. Despite this, the study concluded no significant long-term health risks from pistachio consumption for children or adults, as assessed by probabilistic methods and Hazard Quotient rankings. The results indicate detected residue levels do not pose serious risks to consumers.