Measurement of levels of pesticide residues in foods and crops most often requires extensive cleanup and instrumental techniques such as gas chromatography. Immunoassay measurement techniques, on the other hand, may be used directly on the test portion or require only minimal cleanup. Further refinements of the common antibody–enzyme-based solid-phase assays, such as use of coated magnetic particles, antibody-coated crystals, and continuous-flow devices, have extended the measurement range and applicability of these assays. Likewise, new immunoassays for pesticides have been developed, and existing assays have been refined, optimized, and more completely characterized and validated. In addition to their ability to accurately and reliably measure amounts of residues present in food and crops, immunoassays can be readily used as rapid screening methods for contaminants in field samples. We have previously reviewed much of the work in the area of pesticide immunoassay; this report updates previous information and discusses some new immunoassay techniques.
Determination of the presence and levels of pesticide residues In food Is fundamental In monitoring and regulatory programs. Residues are separated from the food matrix by solvent extraction, followed by cleanup steps. The residues are most often Identified and quantltated by instrumental analysis, usually liquid or gas chromatography. Extraction and cleanup are often laborious and time-consuming; determination requires expensive, sophisticated Instrumentation. There is a need for rapid, easily performed tests, such as Immunoassays, that could be used for screening under field conditions or for quantitation of residues In foods in the laboratory. Although a large number of immunoassays have been developed for pesticide chemicals, very few have been specifically applied to foods, and only a very small number are currently available commercially. The agencies charged with monitoring and regulatory responsibilities—Environmental Protection Agency, Food and Drug Administration, and U.S. Department of Agriculture—as well as professional societies such as AOAC and the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry, are Investigating and developing guidelines for test kit evaluation and standards to be met before a kit can be accepted as a practical and useful method of analysis for use In their programs.
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