Field efficacy of new-generation insecticides and household residue mitigation techniques assessed by LC-MS/MS for safe tomato consumption

The present study was conducted during 2023–24 and 2024–25 to evaluate the field efficacy of new-generation insecticides against major insect pests of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) and to assess household-level residue mitigation techniques for safe tomato consumption. Field trials tested chlorantraniliprole, emamectin benzoate, spinosad, and indoxacarb at three dosages. Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC at the recommended 1× dose reduced Helicoverpa armigera populations by 59.82% and 51.60% across the two seasons, and aphid populations by 32.20% and 39.09%, achieving tomato yields of 17.40 t ha−1 with a benefit–cost ratio of 2.67:1, which were comparable to the marginally higher yields recorded at higher doses. Higher doses increased pest suppression and yield but reduced beneficial coccinellid beetles. Therefore, the identification of the most suitable insecticide was based on performance at the recommended (1×) dose, where effective pest control was achieved with minimal impact on beneficial arthropods. Among household decontamination methods, a 2% salt solution achieved over 84% residue reduction across all insecticides at the 1× dose, followed by lukewarm water (81.58–85.17%), lemon juice (78.82–81.88%), tamarind solution (78.15–79.55%), and tap water (77.46–79.38%). Residue removal was more effective at recommended doses due to lower initial deposits. Chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC at the recommended dose showed effective pest control while preserving natural enemies, and simple household washing techniques, particularly salt solutions, significantly reduced residues, ensuring safer tomato consumption.