Risk perception and sensory analyses of fresh tomatoes obtained from an open market in São Paulo, Brazil

Abstract

The nutritional and sensory qualities of tomatoes favor their acceptance worldwide. This study was carried out to evaluate the risk perception of agrochemical and sensory residue in tomato consumption. Thus, 12 kg of organic tomatoes (OT) and 12 kg of conventional tomatoes (CT) at an equal maturation stage were selected. R version 3.6.1 was applied to the analysis of physical and chemical variables. The Mann-Whitney test with a value of p<0.05 was used to verify associations between the groups. The sensory evaluation involved 37 volunteers and considered the mean answers of each question about the perception of fresh tomatoes. The OT presented about 13% more ascorbic acid in relation to CT, but there was no significant difference between them (p>0.05). OT detected higher values for pH, soluble solids (ºBrix) and titratable acidity, but there were no significant differences between them (p>0.05). Chlorfenapir residues below the Acceptable Daily Intake (IDA) value (0.03 mg/kg per capita) were detected, indicating a low risk of acute toxicity. Chlorfenapir is banned in Europe, but remains detected in Brazil. Public policies are needed to encourage sustainable food production.