Elements and pesticide residues in extra virgin olive oil from Sicily (southern Italy) and consumer exposure assessment

Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) produced in Sicily (Southern Italy) was examined with validated methods for elements by ICP-MS and 146 pesticide residues by GC-MS/MS in 100 samples. Nickel was detected in all samples (0.082–1.636 mg/kg), whereas Pb and As were detected in 20% of the samples at much lower levels. Estimated daily intake (EDI) for non-essential elements was below the health-based guidance values established by European and international authorities. No pesticide residues were detected above the limits of quantification in any of the samples. Within the adopted sampling design, no statistically significant differences were observed among the investigated olive cultivars (p > 0.05). These findings provide additional data on the occurrence of trace elements and pesticide residues in Sicilian EVOO, confirming the chemical safety of the samples analysed, characterised by Pb levels below EU limits and absence of organophosphorus pesticide residues.