Assessment of Herbicide Residue Levels and Physicochemical Properties of Soils in Maize and Sorghum Farms from Ardo Kola, Jalingo, And Yorro Local Government Areas of Taraba State, Nigeria
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33003/fjs-2026-1013-5253Keywords:
Glyphosate, Herbicide residues, Maize, Sorghum, Physicochemical parameters, GC-MS, Taraba State, Food safetyAbstract
This study assessed the levels of selective and non-selective herbicide residues (Atrazine, 2,4-Dichlorophenol, Glyphosate, and Paraforce) in maize and sorghum obtained from farms in Ardo Kola, Jalingo, and Yorro Local Government Areas of Taraba State, Nigeria. Key physicochemical properties of the corresponding soils, including pH, total organic carbon (TOC), total organic matter (TOM), cation exchange capacity (CEC), and particle size distribution, were also evaluated to determine their influence on herbicide retention and mobility. Twelve maize and sorghum samples and twelve soil samples were collected using composite sampling techniques. Herbicide residues were extracted, purified, and quantified using Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), while soil physicochemical parameters were determined using standard analytical methods. Glyphosate was the only herbicide detected in all study locations, with concentrations ranging from 10.82 to 48.04 mg/kg, exceeding the FAO/WHO Codex Alimentarius Maximum Residue Limits (0.1–0.5 mg/kg) for cereal grains. Atrazine, Paraforce, and 2,4-Dichlorophenol were below detectable limits in all samples. Residue levels were highest in maize from Bakin Dutse (Ardo Kola), followed by Kpantinapo (Yorro) and Nukkai (Jalingo), indicating widespread use of glyphosate-based herbicides. Soil analysis showed slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.15–7.35), low TOC (0.02–1.22%), moderate CEC (2.86–5.14 cmol/kg), and predominantly sandy textures, conditions that favour glyphosate mobility and crop uptake. The findings raise concerns about excessive herbicide application, poor adherence to recommended pre-harvest intervals, and potential dietary exposure to glyphosate. Strengthened regulatory enforcement, farmer education, and integrated weed management practices are recommended to enhance food safety and environmental quality in Taraba State.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Amira Ibrahim Abba, Ernest Isaac, Eunice Adebowale Medjor; Weltime Odeguonor Medjor
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