Assessing the Effectiveness of Saponins from Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) to Mitigate Cypermethrin Residues in Apples

Abstract

Pesticide residues on fruits and vegetables are of major health concern around the world. Some of these pesticide residues are extremely toxic and can become a major causative factor for various diseases such as cardiovascular disorders (CVDs), lung, endocrine, and nervous system damage, as well as the circulatory system, and reproductive system problems. This study was aimed at investigating the effectiveness of saponins isolated from alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) seeds for mitigating cypermethrin residues on apples (Malus domestica Borkh.) in comparison to tap water, citric acid, and baking soda. Cypermethrin concentration applied to apples was 1 ml/L. After washing the apples with varying concentrations of different washing solutions, analysis for cypermethrin residues was performed using a UV/VIS spectrophotometer at a wavelength of 535 nm. The maximal removal of residues recorded for baking soda, tap water, and citric acid was 92.98, 72.50, and 74.59 % respectively. Saponins exhibited a maximum of 13.90 % of residual removal which was not as effective as other washing agents.