Assessment Of The Level Of Pesticide Residue In Cocoa Beans From Selected Mega Stores In Ado Metropolis, Ekiti State, Southwestern, Nigeria

Introduction: Approximation of 30%-40% of cocoa produced are lost to either pest or disease hence the dependence on the use and application of pesticides to boost productivity. Objective: This study was carried out to assess the level of pesticide residue in cocoa beans from selected mega stores in Ado metropolis of Ekiti State, Nigeria. Methodology: Dry cocoa beans were sampled from nine largest cocoa stores in Ado Metropolis using a composite sampling technique. Sample results were analyzed using AAS spectrometer. Data obtained were analyzed using T-test, ANOVA, simple percentage method, frequency table, charts and graphs. Result: Concentrations of the pesticide residues in each cocoa bean samples were calculated (in mg/kg). A total of nine (9) pesticide residues were detected in cocoa bean samples drawn, Pesticide residues identified in the cocoa beans were Lindane, Dieldrin, Aldrin, Gamma HCH, DDE, DDD, DDT, Beta HCH and Heptachlor. Conclusion: From this study it was concluded that heptachlor is the most widely used pesticides of all the chemicals analyzed in cocoa samples from Ado metropolis of Ekiti State. It is suggested that relevant agencies should educate Cocoa farmers on the approved a pesticides and safe application of pesticide in such a way that it will be within EU permissible level while also instituting a monitoring mechanism to ensure that