Mahdis Mosayebi, Habiballah Mirzaee,
Volume 6, Issue 4 (3-2014)
Abstract
Background and Objective: Rice is one of the most consumed food items that is exposed to mycotoxins and heavy metals contamination. Due to the accumulation of heavy metals in the tissues of human body and its side effects on the body and being carcinogenic and mutagenic mycotoxin, the present study was conducted to determine contamination of rice imported in Golestan Province. Materials and Methods: We collected 80 samples of imported rice from India and Pakistan on the Inche boron border in Golestan province between January 2011 and August 2012. We analyzed each sample for the amount of mycotoxins (aflatoxins B1, B2, G1, G2 and total aflatoxins, ochratoxin A, zearalenone and dexynivalenol) and heavy metals (lead, arsenic, and cadmium). We used HPLC to measure mycotoxins and immunoaffinity column (Dexynivalenol purification was conducted using DONSPE column) for purifying. Hydride generation atomic absorption based optical spectroscopy technique was used for determining arsenic. Graphite furnace atomic absorption according AOAC.986.15 was used to determine lead and cadmium. Results: We found that the average level of aflatoxin B1, B2, ochratoxin A, and total aflatoxin were 0.93, 0.036, 0.033 and 0.96 ng/g respectively. Aflatoxin G1, G2 and dexynivalenol was not observed in any of the samples. Average concentrations of lead, arsenic, and cadmium in the samples were 0.067, 0.007, 0.024 mg/kg respectively. Conclusions: All samples were within the accepted maximum limits of Iran National Standards for heavy metals and mycotoxins in rice.
Alireza Mesdaghinia, Kamran Bagheri Lankarani, Kazem Naddafi, Mohammad Sadegh Hassanvand, Mohammad Paeezi, Reza Saeedi,
Volume 17, Issue 4 (3-2025)
Abstract
Background and Objective: The use of chemical pesticides is essential for integrated pest management; however, their improper application can lead to significant health and environmental consequences. This study aimed to develop an advocacy document for managing pesticide residues in agricultural products in the country, supported by the Academy of Medical Sciences of the Islamic Republic of Iran.
Materials and Methods: The study comprised the following steps: (1) formation of a committee to develop the advocacy document, (2) assessment of pesticide residue levels in agricultural products, (3) evaluation of the management of pesticide residues in the country, (4) drafting the advocacy document, and (5) proposing executive recommendations to improve the current situation.
Results: The systematic review and meta-analysis revealed that approximately 19% of agricultural products in the country exceeded the maximum residue level (MRL) set by the Codex Alimentarius Commission, a relatively high rate compared to other countries. While existing laws and regulations provided a clear framework for pesticide residue management and outlined stakeholder responsibilities, there was insufficient allocation of resources and support for policymakers, executives, beneficiaries, and the general public. The advocacy document identified stakeholder roles and defined five goals to enhance stakeholder engagement and foster intersectoral collaboration. The five key recommendations to improve the current situation were: (1) clarifying the current status of pesticide residue management, (2) setting quantitative goals for programs, (3) ensuring adequate budget and resource allocation, (4) leveraging expert opinions effectively, and (5) improving the performance of beneficiaries.
Conclusion: To ensure the implementation of these recommendations and achieve the goals outlined in this document, it is recommended to establish an advocacy committee on pesticide residue management in agricultural products. This committee should include representatives from all responsible organizations within the Ministry of Health, Treatment, and Medical Education.
