Developments toward analysis of pesticides at residue levels among High Chlorophyll Containing Edible Leafy Plants – Sampling, QuEChERS and LC-MS/MS based analysis

The usage of pesticides is crucial in maintaining the long-term health of plantations and boosting crop productivity. Nonetheless, their uncontrolled application has led to contamination of the environment, primarily affecting crops, soil, and water resources. Leafy plants rich in chlorophyll, classified as superfoods, have enhanced the quality of human life, however, they are prone to contamination with foreign contamination compounds known as xenobiotics, which pose a challenge for routine laboratory analysis. This paper reviews advancements among various sample preparation techniques evolving towards modern QuEChERS methodology and the features of the liquid chromatography mass spectroscopy technique that are useful for the assessment of pesticides from multiple classes at residue levels in such highly nutritious substances from High Chlorophyll Containing Edible Leafy Plants. • Occurrence of pesticides in organic food can be matter of concern especially for superfoods. • Liquid Chromatography - Mass Spectrometry is a universally acceptable technique for analysis of residual pesticides. • QuEChERS based sample preparation is an ever-evolving yet well-established methodology. • High Chlorophyll containing plant material are difficult matrices especially for wheatgrass. • Maximum Residue Value of pesticide are to be referred to while assessment as per Food Safety and Standards Authority of India.