Dynamic distribution of azoxystrobin residues in strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa Duchesne) using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry: Putative evaluation of dietary intake

A simple, rapid and environmentally compatible method involving quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged and safe (QuEChERS) extraction technique for simultaneous detection of azoxystrobin residues in strawberry was optimised and validated. Liquid chromatography-electrospray ionisation-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS/MS) was also used for quantitative and confirmatory analysis of azoxystrobin residues in strawberry. Recoveries ranged between 96% and 111% and repeatability (expressed as percentage relative standard deviation, % RSD) typically <11% has been well achieved. The dissipation pattern of azoxystrobin in different treatments level, based on the most critical field use patterns was reported utilising the method developed in this study. The results revealed that the degradation of azoxystrobin in strawberry followed first-order kinetics (R2 > 0.974) with estimated half-life value of 8.45 days. Considering the terminal residues and the maximum residue limit (MRL, 10 mg kg−1) in strawberry, and based on this study, it is safe to harvest strawberry 3 days after applying azoxystrobin even at rated higher the recommended one with exaggerated, suggesting that the use of this compound is safe for humans. The results could provide a guidance to fully evaluate the risks of azoxystrobin to consumers.