AVALIAÇÃO DA QUALIDADE DO MEL DE DUAS ESPÉCIES DE ABELHAS NO OESTE DO PARANÁ COM INVESTIGAÇÃO DE RESÍDUOS DE NEONICOTINOIDES

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the presence of neonicotinoids in commercial honey produced by two bee species — Tetragonisca angustula and Apis mellifera — in the western region of Paraná, a territory characterized by intense agricultural activity and frequent pesticide use. A total of 30 honey samples, comprising 15 from T. angustula and 15 from A. mellifera, were analyzed through physicochemical characterization, including assessments of moisture, free acidity, ash content, Lugol’s test, total soluble solids, insoluble solids, and crude protein. Detection and quantification of neonicotinoids were conducted following sample preparation via dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction (DLLME) and solid-phase extraction (SPE), with subsequent analysis using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with a diode array detector (UHPLC-DAD). The extraction techniques proved effective in eliminating matrix interferences and ensuring high analyte recovery. The analytical methods were validated in accordance with international guidelines, demonstrating high sensitivity, precision, and reliability, particularly in the context of honey’s complex matrix. The results indicated the absence of thiamethoxam and imidacloprid in all T. angustula samples, suggesting the safety of these products regarding neonicotinoid contamination. Among the A. mellifera samples, only one of the fifteen exhibited thiamethoxam contamination, with a concentration of 0.089 mg kg⁻¹, exceeding the maximum residue limit (MRL) of 0.05 mg kg⁻¹ established by the European Union. This regulation was adopted as a reference due to the lack of specific MRLs for honey in Brazilian legislation. No imidacloprid residues were detected in any sample. These findings suggest that western Paraná presents a favorable scenario in terms of the absence of neonicotinoid contamination in honey, potentially reflecting effective management practices for this class of insecticides. Moreover, the study highlights the potential use of honey as a bioindicator in environmental monitoring, providing relevant data to support food safety strategies, health surveillance efforts, and public policies aimed at promoting environmental and human health.