A Snapshot Distribution of Chlorinated Pesticide Residue Levels within Meat Cuts and Organs of Bulls Imported to Jordan by QuEChERS Method: Dietary Exposure and Risk Assessment

Abstract

An investigation of the levels and distribution of the most common persistent chlorinated pesticides in different cuts and organs of beef bulls imported to the local market in Amman/Jordan in the same carcass or slaughtered animal as a new sampling approach was conducted. Fifty-four cuts from different parts of locally slaughtered bulls, along with their organs, were collected from nine different bulls. These bulls were from various breeds, including Holstein Friesian, Indo-Brazilian, Romosinuano and Bălțata. A QuEChERS method was used for extraction. The analysis was done using a gas chromatography-electron capture detector (GC-ECD). Sixteen organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) were detected in cuts/organs and calculated in units of µg/kg (meat). Almost all cuts/organs contained OCPs. Amongst all 51 cuts, 2,4'-DDE was found in 77.78% of all cuts, followed by α-HCH and Aldrin (62.96%). Concentrations and types of OCPs differed from one cut to another within the same carcass. Also, the average pesticide concentration varied from one bull to another. Moreover, the highest concentration of individual pesticides varied with the bull's cut type or organ and origin. The Estimated Daily Intake (EDI) was much less than the Minimal Risk Levels (MRL) for all cuts and organs, with a Health Risk Index (HI) < 1, indicating no adverse health effects. HI could be used to indicate which cuts can be consumed safely.