Trace Detection of Carbendazim on Strawberries

Importance of the Topic

Carbendazim is a widely used fungicide in agriculture with potential health risks if present on produce above regulatory limits. Rapid, on-site detection of surface residues is critical to ensure consumer safety and compliance with international standards.

Study Objectives and Overview

This application note presents a straightforward assay using Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) with the Metrohm Instant SERS Analyzer (MISA) to detect trace levels of carbendazim on strawberries. The goal is to establish a portable, sensitive method for in-field screening.

Methodology and Instrumentation Used

Sample Preparation

• Spray whole strawberries with a 100 mg/L carbendazim solution in ethanol to mimic field application
• Allow fruit to dry, rinse surface with 4 mL ethanol and concentrate the rinse to 1 mL by gentle evaporation
• Mix 100 µL of the concentrated sample with 800 µL gold nanoparticle colloid and 100 µL of 500 mmol/L NaCl

Instrumentation Used

• MISA Advanced portable SERS analyzer with Orbital-Raster-Scan technology
• MISA Vial Attachment for sample introduction
• ID Kit – Au NP containing gold colloidal solution, spatula, pipettes and vials

Main Results and Discussion

Baseline-corrected SERS spectra of the strawberry rinse demonstrate characteristic peaks matching the carbendazim reference spectrum obtained from a pure methanolic standard. This confirms sensitive detection of 100 mg/L carbendazim under field-simulated conditions.

Benefits and Practical Applications

The MISA SERS method offers rapid, on-site screening of produce without extensive laboratory infrastructure. Key advantages include minimal sample preparation, portability for farm or market testing, and the ability to verify organic status by detecting pesticide residues.

Future Trends and Potential Uses

Expanding the SERS library to cover additional pesticides and contaminants will broaden application scope. Integration with mobile data platforms and automated field protocols can enhance real-time monitoring across the food supply chain. Development of custom SERS strips may further simplify sampling.

Conclusion

The Metrohm Instant SERS Analyzer provides an effective, user-friendly solution for trace detection of carbendazim on fruit surfaces. Its portability and sensitivity make it ideal for routine safety checks at farms, markets and processing facilities.

References

• No external literature citations were provided in the original document