Pesticide residues in bovine milk from a predominantly agricultural state of Haryan, India

One hundred forty seven samples of bovine milk were collected from 14 districts of Haryana, India during December 1998-February 1999 and analysed for the presence of organochlorine pesticide (OCPs) residues. Sigma HCH, Sigma DDT, Sigma endosulfan and aldrin were detected in 100%, 97%, 43% and 12% samples and with mean values of 0.0292, 0.0367, 0.0022 and 0.0036 mu g/ml, respectively. Eight percent samples exceeded the maximum residue limit (MRL) of 0. 10 mg/kg as recommended by WHO for YHCH, 4% samples of 0.05 mg/kg for oc-HCH, 5% samples of 0.01 mg/kg for gamma-HCH, 26% samples of 0.02 mg/ kg for P-HCH as recommended by PFAA and 24% samples of 0.05 mg/kg as recommended by FAO for Sigma DDT. Concentrations of beta-HCH and p,p'-DDE were more as compared to other isomers and metabolites of HCH and DDT.