Assessment of the pesticide residues in organically and conventionally grown okra fruits from Vidarbha region of Maharashtra-IN

Abstract

The overuse of synthetic pesticides has brought Indian agriculture to a critical point, with pesticide residues on okra fruits now a major concern. A study comparing organically and conventionally grown okra from various districts in Maharashtra's Vidarbha region revealed stark contrasts. Organic okra, grown without synthetic pesticides, showed no harmful residues, except for azadirachtin, a botanical pesticide. In contrast, conventionally grown okra from markets and experimental fields exhibited multiple synthetic pesticide residues, particularly monocrotophos, which significantly exceeded the maximum residue limit (MRL). The widespread contamination of marketed okra poses serious health risks, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable alternatives like organic farming. While azadirachtin levels in organic okra exceeded the MRL, its toxicity is minimal compared to the harmful synthetic pesticides found in conventional crops. Organic farming thus offers a viable path to safer, healthier food systems.