Work

X-ray irradiation simultaneously mitigates chlorfenapyr and azoxystrobin residues and preserves postharvest quality of cowpea

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Cowpea faces a residue-quality trade off during postharvest storage, requiring effective pesticide dissipation without accelerating quality deterioration. This study evaluated the potential of X ray irradiation (0-350 Gy) to simultaneously dissipate chlorfenapyr and azoxystrobin residues, and preserve the postharvest quality of cowpea over 8 days. Pesticide dissipation was dose-dependent, influenced by pesticide properties and matrix effects, with azoxystrobin showing greater apparent degradability than chlorfenapyr. Transformation products were identified, with degradation pathways involving dealkylation, hydroxylation, hydrolysis or ether cleavage, and reductive dehalogenation, while ECOSAR screening indicated most products had potentially lower aquatic toxicity for most products. Irradiated samples also showed lower microbial growth and lipid peroxidation, together with higher antioxidant enzyme activities, phenolics, and flavonoids, suggesting an adaptive stress response. The optimal 300-350 Gy irradiation range balances residue reduction and short-term storage quality, providing a sustainable technical and theoretical foundation for safe postharvest commercial handling of fresh cowpea.

Source: Food Chemistry X

DOI: 10.1016/j.fochx.2026.103916