Estimation of Organic Pesticide Residues in Wines of Moldova

Abstract

This paper presents the study of pesticide residues in Moldovan wine products originating from traditional agriculture because the appreciation of these compounds is an important aspect of food safety. During 2007–2010, about 3000 analyses of wine samples using GC-MS were investigated. Persistent organic pollutants (POPs), i.e., α-, β-, γ-HCH, aldrine, and heptachlor were not found in any of the samples. Insignificant quantities of metalaxyl and mefenoxam were found in some wine samples. The missing of POPs in wine products represents an important quality feature. The study showed that if growers comply with rules of phytosanitary treatments and the waiting period is respected, the content of pesticide residues can be reduced to safe limits. Also, the list of approved pesticides must be regularly revised, taking into account the degree of toxicity. Additionally, growers are to be constantly informed about effectuated changes.