Fine-bubble technology application for pesticide-removal effect in 'Gros Michel' banana (Musa acuminata 'Gros Michel')

Abstract

'Gros Michel' bananas are among highly exported agricultural product in Thailand. Their cultivation involves several pesticide applications to meet consumer satisfaction. In several countries, pesticide residues found in the bananas may result in rejection and further banned the imported products which may affect export income of Thailand. Therefore, it is important to reduce the level of the pesticide residue to meet Maximum Residue Levels (MRLs). The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of fine-bubble technology on commonly used pesticides, chlorpyrifos and cypermethrin, in banana fruits. The contact times, 15, 30, 60, and 90 minutes, and types of gas, air and ozone, used for microbubble generation were also studied. Pesticide removal effect of fine-bubble technology which was first screened using GPO-TM kits, a test kit for pesticide detection. The findings revealed that both organophosphate and pyrethroid pesticides were not detected after 30 minutes contact time when treated with fine-bubbles regardless of the gas type. Air microbubble treatment was chosen for further quantitative analysis using gas chromatography (GC). In comparison to the unwashed products (Control), air microbubble application lessened chlorpyrifos and cypermethrin by 80% and 72%, respectively. Even though fine-bubble technology successfully reduced pesticide residue in banana fruits, modes of action require further investigation.