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A selective review of LC–MS/MS-based pesticide residue analysis (2020–2025): advances in QuEChERS methods, multi-matrix applications, and analytical validation

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Pesticide residue analysis plays a crucial role in ensuring food safety, environmental protection, and public health. Liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) has become an important analytical technique for pesticide residue determination because of its high sensitivity, selectivity, and suitability for complex matrices. This review summarizes recent developments in LC–MS/MS-based pesticide residue analysis published between 2020 and 2025, with particular focus on sample preparation, QuEChERS extraction, chromatographic separation, method validation, and green analytical approaches. A total of 142 research studies were reviewed, covering a wide range of food, environmental, and biological matrices. Recent developments in QuEChERS-based extraction and clean-up strategies, chromatographic conditions, mass spectrometric detection, and validation parameters were compared. In addition, 13 selected analytical methods representing different matrices and analytical workflows were evaluated using the Green Analytical Procedure Index (GAPI) and Analytical GREEnness Metric (AGREE). The reviewed studies show a clear trend towards more sensitive, efficient, and sustainable analytical procedures, with increasing use of miniaturized extraction, reduced solvent consumption, improved clean-up, and greener analytical practices. These approaches can reduce chemical use and analytical waste while maintaining reliable pesticide residue determination. The review also highlights the remaining challenges associated with matrix effects, method robustness, and the analysis of highly polar pesticides. Future developments should focus on greener sample preparation, harmonized validation, and the integration of advanced mass spectrometric and data-processing approaches for sustainable pesticide monitoring.

Source: Sustainable Chemistry for Climate Action

DOI: 10.1016/j.scca.2026.100239

Authors: S. Kathirvel, Naba Fathima, Sana Fathima, Ruby A․S․, Kokilambigai K․S․

Institutions: Kerala University of Health Sciences, KMCT Group of Educational Institutions

Language: English

Topic: Pesticide Residue Analysis and Safety

Subfield: Food Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Zero hunger

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,550