Analytical methods for pesticide residues determination in propolis and propolis-based products

Abstract

As a result of massive bee deaths in recent years, beekeeping is raising concerns about the presence of pesticides in propolis which is considered as a safe product. The paper is focused on the analysis of bee propolis and propolis-based products using various chromatographic techniques using mass spectrometry detection predominantly. An important part of the work is an overview concerning methods of sample preparation, extraction, and purification of extracts, followed by separation and detection techniques. Positive findings of contaminants and their concentrations in propolis samples and propolis products were evaluated. Sorption based techniques such as matrix solid phase dispersion and solvent-based extraction techniques are frequently applied for propolis analysis in connection with chromatographic techniques. Liquid-based extractions, such as the QuEChERS extraction technique (Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged, Safe), combine extraction by solvent with several ways of extract cleaning using combinations of salts and sorbents, primary secondary amine, MgSO4, NaCl, graphitized carbon, EMR-lipid, florisil, or octadecylsilane-modified silica gel. Other extraction techniques were reviewed. The most significant problem to be considered in pesticides detection is the topic of matrix effects, which have to be solved for each sample analysis with special care.

Effect of wax separation on macro‐ and micro‐elements, phenolic compounds, pesticide residues, and toxic elements in propolis

“…pesticides) and/or pollutants of the atmosphere and plants (i.e. toxic metals) can also be detected both in raw propolis and in its products (Blažková et al., 2022 ; Cvek et al., 2008 ; Gonzalez‐Martin et al., 2018 ). The monitoring of contaminants such as pesticide residues within propolis has gained increasing significance due to the rising utilization of propolis in recent years, driven by its perceived health benefits (Blažková et al., 2022 ).…”

“…This step and the final filtration enable the removal of the remaining beeswax as well as any foreign materials (Burdock, 1998 ). However, in the realm of propolis processing, it is a relatively uncommon practice to incorporate a dedicated step aimed at separating waxy constituents (Blažková et al., 2022 ; Catchpole et al., 2004 ).…”

“…toxic metals) can also be detected both in raw propolis and in its products (Blažková et al, 2022;Cvek et al, 2008;Gonzalez-Martin et al, 2018). The monitoring of contaminants such as pesticide residues within propolis has gained increasing significance due to the rising utilization of propolis in recent years, driven by its perceived health benefits (Blažková et al, 2022). The study by Gonzalez-Martin et al (2018) reported that some of the processed propolis products contained different amounts of pesticides and toxic metals.…”