Abstract

Pesticides are widely utilized across the globe to enhance agricultural productivity; however, their persistent nature often leads to environmental contamination and poses significant risks to human health. To address these concerns, the present study was conducted to assess the levels of selected pesticide residues-specifically organochlorine (OC), organophosphorus (OP), and synthetic pyrethroid pesticides-in 200 samples of raw milk and dairy products, including feta cheese, romy cheese, and butter collected from different local market and farms at Kafr Elsheikh province, Egypt using Gas Chromatography. Results revealed significant contamination, with 17.5% of dairy shop milk and 15% of feta cheese samples exceeding maximum residue limits (MRLs) for ∑DDT. Other pesticides, such as HCB, malathion, chlorpyrifos, deltamethrin, and cypermethrin were detected at varying rates, but most samples remained within their respective MRLs. These pesticide residues, especially in high-fat dairy products, highlight ongoing environmental contamination and potential health risks for consumers. The findings underscore the need for regular monitoring and stricter enforcement of food safety regulations to minimize public health risks associated with pesticide exposure through dairy consumption.

Key words: Raw milk, Dairy products, Organochlorine, Organophosphorus, Pyrethroids, Gas Chromatography, Kafr Elsheikh