Gas Chromatographic Analysis of the Distribution γ-Hexachlorocyclohexane in Agricultural Crops

The work is devoted to the study of the distribution of γ-hexachlorocyclohexane in turnips and beets between their bulbs, tops, and skin. The sample preparation procedure recommended by GOST is supplemented by the use of liquid nitrogen for the deeper crushing and destruction of plant cells. It was found that the use of liquid nitrogen, with other experimental parameters being constant, leads to a 2–3-fold increase in the amount of the pesticide being determined. It was found that the distribution of γ-HCCH in plants is uneven: the highest concentration of the pesticide is found in the skin, while the amount of γ-HCCH in the tops was the lowest. It was shown that the pesticide is better accumulated in beet skin than in turnip skin; for the tops the pattern is reversed, and the accumulation of γ-HCCH in the bulbs of these root crops is similar in magnitude. The obtained data can be useful for analytical quality control services of agricultural products.