Screening of pesticide residues in meat and milk samples of sheep maintained in institute and field flocks

Organochlorine pesticide residues viz., DDT, Aldrin, Endrin, Dieldrin, Endosulfon, Heptachlor and BHC were screened in meat and milk samples of sheep maintained in institute and field flocks. The levels of organochlorine pesticide residues in meat and milk of sheep were compared with maximum tolerance levels reported by Food standards and it was not detected even at 5 ppb level concentration. The present study clearly indicated that meat and milk produced by sheep in the region meets the norms fixed for food safety and are also safe for human consumption. However, regular monitoring and screening of pesticide residues in meat and milk in different regions should be made mandatory for protecting human beings from their hazardous effects.