PESTICIDE RESIDUES IN FOOD - 1984
Sponsored jointly by FAO and WHO
EVALUATIONS 1984
The monographs
Data and recommendations of the joint meeting
of the FAO Panel of Experts on Pesticide Residues
in Food and the Environment and the
WHO Expert Group on Pesticide Residues
Rome, 24 September - 3 October 1984
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
Rome 1985
DEMETON-S-METHYL AND RELATED COMPOUNDS
(DEMETON-S-METHYL,OXYDEMETON-METHYL SULPHOXIDE),
AND DEMETON-S-METHYL SULPHONE)
Explanation
One member of this group of compounds, oxydemeton-methyl
(demeton-S-methyl sulphoxide), was reviewed at the 1965, 1967 and 1968
meetings1/. On the basis of the studies available at that time,
primarily short-term studies, an acceptable daily intake for man was
estimated at the 1965 meeting to be 0-0.0025 mg/kg/day. When further
considered at the 1967 meeting new data, primarily a three-generation
reproduction study, were reviewed and the ADI for man re-affirmed to
be 0-0.0025 mg/kg/day. The 1968 meeting re-evaluated this compound and
concluded that the available information revealed that the toxicology
was not related to a single defined compound nor was there precise
knowledge of the materials actually used in agricultural practice.
Furthermore, no long-term data on any of the substances belonging to
this group were available for evaluation. That meeting, therefore,
recommended that the ADI as established at previous meetings should no
longer be considered valid. The further work required to allow full
assessment to be made included: specifications of the compound or
compounds in actual agricultural use; studies to compare the metabolic
fate in animals, plants and man; investigation of the cholinesterase
inhibition in man and adequate long-term studies in two species. Some
of these requirements were met and considered at the 1973 JMPR when an
ADI of 0-0.005 mg/kg was estimated for the total of all three
compounds.
The 1981 JMPR identified this group of compounds (referred to,
however, as "demeton and related compounds") as one for which the ADI
was partially based on IBT data and the 1982 JMPR, in the absence of
validated long-term toxicity studies, agreed to withdraw the ADI. As a
consequence, the MRLs were withdrawn and replaced by GLs. Since then,
data on current use patterns and new data on residues in various crops
and commodities have become available and are reviewed together with
new information on the stability of these compounds in soil, in this
monograph addendum.
RESIDUES IN FOOD AND THEIR EVALUATION
USE PATTERN
Demeton-S-methyl, oxydemeton-methyl and demeton-S-methyl sulphone
are systemic compounds which have a fast action and long-lasting
activity against sucking insect pests (aphids, thrips, whiteflies,
hoppers, etc.) and spider mites. They also control pests with
concealed habits. By giving good control of virus vectors, they very
largely prevent fresh infections and virus disease spread. Each of the
three compounds displays good crop compatibility.
1/ See Annex 2 for FAO and WHO documentation.
Tables 1 to 4 summarize the currently recommended use patterns of
demeton-S-methyl, oxydemeton-methyl and demeton-S-methyl sulphone.
RESIDUES RESULTING FROM SUPERVISED TRIALS
Tables 5, 6 and 7 summarize the new data on residues from extensive
trials from 1974 to 1982 with all three compounds on a number of
crops. In all analyses the residues were oxidised to the sulphone and
calculated as demeton-S-methyl, the limit of determination being
0.01 mg/kg.
FATE OF RESIDUES
In animals
An earlier study had shown no effects from feeding rations
containing 5 ppm oxydemeton-methyl to poultry for 28 days. A further
study (Thornton, 1975) was conducted to determine the effects, if any,
of feeding higher levels of oxydemeton-methyl to chickens. Poultry
rations containing 15 and 30 ppm oxydemeton-methyl, were fed
continuously for 28 days. At the end of that period, the birds were
sacrificed and tissues and eggs were analyzed for residues. Twelve
laying hens (breed, Babcock 300), approximately 25 weeks old, were
caged individually and fed and watered ad lib. for a two-week
period which was sufficient to establish good egg production and feed
consumption.
Residue analysis of muscle, giblet, skin and fat tissues showed
no detectable residues of oxydemeton-methyl in the chickens fed 15 ppm
fortified feed. At the 30 ppm level, no detectable residues were found
in any tissue except giblets which all contained 0.01 mg/kg. However,
this value is at the extreme limit of sensitivity for tissue analyses
and cannot be considered significant. Twenty-eight day egg residues
from chickens fed 15 ppm showed measurable residues of 0.002 mg/kg
which is near the limit of determination of the method for eggs. At
the 30 ppm feeding level, residues were measured up to 0.005 mg/kg.
In soil
A 5 mg/l aqueous solution of oxydemeton-methyl (methoxy-14C)
irradiated with light from the visible and ultraviolet portion of the
spectrum did not appear to be rapidly degraded. The half-life of the
parent compound under these conditions was 16 days. By comparison, the
half-life of oxydemeton-methyl in a solution containing 2% acetone as
a triplet sensitizer was 4 days. Degradation products in the aqueous
solution included demeton-S-methyl sulphone, dimethyl phosphate and
dimethyl phosphorothioate.
Oxydemeton-methyl irradiated on the surface of silt loam soil did
not appear to be significantly altered by light in comparison to
degradation by other factors (Nichols and Thornton, 1978).
Table 1. Use pattern of demeton-S-methyl
Europe Asia Africa Australia South and
and New Central
Zealand America
Sugar and fodder beet 125-200 g/ha X X
Potatoes 175-400 g/ha X X X
Pome fruit 0.025 % X X X
(apples, pears)
Cereals 75-125 g/ha X X X
Ornamentals, X X
tree nurseries
Table 2. Use pattern of oxydemeton-methyl
Europe Asia Africa Australia South and
and New Central
Zealand America
Sugar and fodder beet 125-200 g/ha X X
Potatoes 175-400 g/ha X X X
Pome fruit 0.025 % X X X X
(apples, pears)
Stone and small fruit 0.025 % X X X
Apricots
Strawberries
Currants
Cherries
Peaches
Plums
Grapes 0.025 % X X X
Cereals 75-125 g/ha X X
Maize, Sorghum 175-200 g/ha X X
Citrus fruit 0.025 % X X X X
Alfalfa 250 g/ha X
Table 2. (continued)
Europe Asia Africa Australia South and
and New Central
Zealand America
Vegetables 125-300 g/ha X X X X
Eggplants
Beans
Broccoli
Peas
Cucumbers
Brassicas (Kale,
Brussels sprouts,
Cauliflower)
Kohlrabi
Pumpkins, Squash
Melons
Carrots
Head Lettuce
Tomatoes
Onions
Ornamentals, X X
tree nurseries X X
Table 3. Use pattern of demeton-S-methyl sulphone (in "Gusathion MS"*)
Europe Asia Africa Australia South and
and New Central
Zealand America
Pome fruit 0.015 % X X
Apples, pears
Stone and small fruit 0.015 % X
Strawberries, currants
cherries, plums
Grapes 0.015 % X
* "Gusathion MS" also contains azinphos-methyl.
Table 4. Use pattern of oxydemeton-methyl in the USA
Crops Dose, a.i.
Cotton 437 - 585 g/ha
Corn 437 - 585 g/ha
Sorghum 292 - 585 g/ha
Sugar beets 437 - 877 g/ha
Alfalfa 437 - 585 g/ha
Blackberries, Raspberries 0,032 - 0,047 %
Grapes, Lemons, Oranges 0,032 - 0,047 %
Pears 0,032 %
Plums, Prunes 0,032 %
Strawberries 437 - 877 g/ha
Beans 585 g/ha
Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, Cauliflower 437 - 585 g/ha
Cabbage 437 - 877 g/ha
Cucumbers 437 - 585 g/ha
Eggplant 585 g/ha
Head lettuce 437 - 585 g/ha
Spanish onions (bulb) 877 g/ha
Peas 437 g/ha
Peppers 585 g/ha
Potatoes 437 - 585 g/ha
Pumpkin, Squash (Winter and Summer) 437 - 585 g/ha
Turnips 437 - 585 g/ha
Muskmelon (cantaloupe), other melons 437 - 587 g/ha
Watermelons 437 - 585 g/ha
Walnuts 0,047 %
Table 5. Residues of demeton-S-methyl in sugar beet, potatoes and apples
Crops Dose a.i. No. of Country Interval, Residue mg/kg Report
applications days range average No.
Sugar beets 200 g/ha 3-4 FRG BAYER
Roots 0 0.06 0.06 (1) 4903 -
13 <0.01 <0.01 (1) 4904/75
21 n.d. n.d. (1) 4900 -
28/30 n.d. -<0.01 <0.01 (4) 4902/77
35 n.d. n.d. (3)
42/43 n.d. n.d. (3)
59-85 n.d. n. d. (6)
Leaves 0 2.57 2.57 (1)
13 0.24 0.24 (1)
21 <0.01 <0.01 (1)
28/30 n.d. - 0.02 <0.01 (4)
35 n.d. n.d. (3)
42/43 n.d. n.d. (3)
59-85 n.d. n.d. (6)
Potatoes 200 - 3 FRG 0 0.06 - 0.11 0.08 (3) BAYER
300 g/ha 14 <0.01 - 0.01 0.01 (3) 4900 -
21/22 0.01 - 0.05 0.02 (3) 4902/74
28/29 <0.01 <0.01 (3)
Apples 0.025 4 FRG 0 0.81 - 0.88 0.85 (3) 4900 -
7 0.48 - 0.64 0.54 (3) 4902/75
14 0.47 - 0.59 0.52 (3)
21 0.42 - 0.54 0.47 (3)
28 0.25 - 0.41 0.33 (3)
Values in parentheses indicate number of individual results.
Table 6. Residues from the use of oxydemeton-methyl in trials on various crops
Crops Dose a.i. No. of Country Interval, Residue mg/kg Report
applications days range average No.
Sugar beets 200 g/ha 4 FRG
Roots 0 0.02 - 0.05 0.03 (3) BAYER
28 0.02 - 0.05 0.03 (3) 4842 -
35 0.02 - 0.05 0.03 (3) 4844/79
42 0.02 - 0.05 0.03 (3)
49 0.02 - 0.05 0.03 (3)
77-88 0.02 - 0.05 0.04 (3)
Leaves 0 1.11 - 2.02 1.58 (3)
28 0.02 - 0.03 0.03 (3)
35 0.02 - 0.03 0.03 (3)
42 0.02 - 0.34 0.13 (3)
49 0.02 - 0.36 0.14 (3)
77-88 0.02 - 0.03 0.03 (3)
Potatoes 200 - 3 FRG 0 <0.02 - 0.04* 0.03 (3) BAYER
300 g/ha 14 0.04 - 0.10* 0.07 (3) 4800 -
21/22 0.02 - 0.08* 0.04 (3) 4802/74
28 0.04* 0.04 (1)
Apples 0,025 % 4 FRG 0 <0.04 - 1.9 0.74 (6) BAYER
10/14 <0.04 - 1.5 0.54 (6) 4823 -
21 <0.04 - 0.96 0.33 (6) 4824/75
28 <0.04 - 0.56 0.22 (6) 4806 -
35 <0.04 - 0.46 0.24 (6) 4807/82
4819 -
4820/82
Table 6. (continued)
Crops Dose a.i. No. of Country Interval, Residue mg/kg Report
applications days range average No.
Pears 0.025 % 4 FRG 0 0.04 - 1.7 0.71 (4) BAYER
10 <0.01 - 0.67 0.26 (4) 4809 -
21 n.d. - 0.49 0.16 (4) 4810/82
28 n.d. - 0.33 0.12 (4) 4821 -
35 n.d. - 0.30 0.10 (4) 4822/82
Strawberries 0.025 % 2 FRG 0 0.41 - 0.58 0.50 (2) BAYER
7 0.23 0.23 (2) 4808 -
14 0.09 - 0.11 0.10 (2) 4809/76
21 0.03 - 0.06 0.05 (2)
28 0.02 0.02 (2)
Currants, black 0.025 % 2 FRG 0 1.9 - 9.2 5.71 (6) BAYER
7 0.89 - 4.02 3.02 (6) 4800 -
12/14 0.50 - 2.4 1.65 (6) 4802/76
19/21 0.41 - 1.59 1.13 (6) 4834 -
26/28 0.22 - 1.33 0.79 (6) 4836/79
33/35 0.30 - 0.73 0.49 (4)
40 0.24 0.24 (1)
Currants, red 0.025 % 2 FRG 0 2.87 - 7.91 5.22 (6) BAYER
7 0.55 - 5.16 2.65 (6) 4803 -
14 0.42 - 4.40 1.87 (6) 4805/76
21 0.37 - 2.61 1.50 (6) 4837 -
28 0.41 - 1.17 0.91 (6) 4839/79
35 0.28 - 1.28 0.69 (3)
Table 6. (continued)
Crops Dose a.i. No. of Country Interval, Residue mg/kg Report
applications days range average No.
Cherries 0.025 % 4 FRG 0 1.08 - 2.16 1.76 (3) BAYER
7 1.01 - 1.57 1.26 (3) 4825-
14 <0.04- 1.39 0.52 (3) 4827/79
21 0.12 - 1.32 0.58 (3)
28 <0.04 - 0.62 0.41 (3)
Peaches 0.025 % 4 FRG 0 <0.04 - 6.0 2.22 (6) BAYER
7 <0.04 - 1.3 0.64 (6) 465-
14 <0.04 - 1.3 0.53 (6) 467/73
21 <0.04 - 0.56 0.23 (6) 4832/79
28 <0.04 - 0.4 0.18 (6) 4805 -
4806/80
Plums 0.025 % 2-4 FRG 0 0.12 - 0.76 0.37 (6) BAYER
7 0.1 - 0.60 0.25 (6) 462 -
14 <0.04 - 0.41 0.21 (6) 464/73
21 0.06 - 0.61 0.27 (6) 4828 -
28 0.08 - 0.24 0.14 (6) 4830/79
Grapes 0.025 % 3 FRG 0 0.55 - 1.9 1.11 (5) BAYER
21 0.5 - 1.4 0.88 (5) 4837-
28 0.05 - 0.87 0.55 (5) 4839/75
55 0.1 - 0.55 0.43 (5) 4840 -
42 0.06 - 0.75 0.41 (5) 4841/79
49 0.07 - 0.7 0.41 (5)
62 0.05 0.05 (1)
Must 0.07 - 0.65 0.36 (3)
Table 6. (continued)
Crops Dose a.i. No. of Country Interval, Residue mg/kg Report
applications days range average No.
Wine 0.08 - 0.4 0.26 (3)
0.045 - 2 USA 49 0.42 - 1.21 0.93 (3) MOBAY
0.075 % 56/58 0.10 - 0.72 0.40 (4) 45057,
61/63 <0.05- 2.43 0.92 (4) 43063,
72 0.19 0.19 (1) 69786,
91-151 <0.05 <0.05 (6) 69800,
69801,
Juice 122 <0.05 <0.05 (1) 69803
Wet pomace 122 <0.05 <0.05 (1)
Dry pomace 122 <0.05 <0.05 (1)
Barley 125 g/ha 2 FRG BAYER
Green forage 0 2.0 - 2.9 2.5 (3) 4803
7 0.33 - 3.2 1.88 (3) 4805/82
14 0.11 0.11 (1)
Ears 0 1.6 - 3.8 2.47 (3)
7 0.38 - 3.5 1.63 (3)
14 0.12 0.12 (1)
Straw 14 0.65 - 1.1 0.88 (2)
21 <0.01 - 0.97 0.36 (3)
28 <0.01 - <0.02 <0.02 (3)
Grains 14 0.04 - 0.25 0.15 (2)
21 <0.01 - 0.1 0.05 (5)
28 <0.01 - 0.08 0.04 (3)
Table 6. (continued)
Crops Dose a.i. No. of Country Interval, Residue mg/kg Report
applications days range average No.
Oats 125 g/ha 2 FRG
Green forage 0 0.48 - 2.5 1.57 (3) BAYER
7 0.01 - 1.7 1.00 (3) 4800 -
14 0.01 - 0.77 0.31 (3) 4802/82
Ears 0 0.25 - 3.40 1.78 (3)
7 0.18 - 1.7 0.96 (3)
14 0.18 - 1.1 0.67 (3)
Straw 21 <0.02 - 0.12 0.07 (3)
28 <0.02 - 0.17 0.06 (3)
Grains 21 <0.02 - 0.08 0.03 (3)
28 <0.02 - 0.03 0.02 (3)
Wheat 200 g/ha 2 FRG BAYER
Green forage 0 1.63 1.63 (1) 4800-
7 0.28 0.28 (1) 4802/79
14 0.33 0.33 (1)
Ears 0 0.27 - 1.80 1.07 (3)
7 <0.05 - 0.24 0.16 (3)
14 <0.02 - 0.09 0.04 (5,)
21 <0.02 <0.02 (1)
Straw 0 <0.05 - 1.60 0.81 (2)
7 <0.05 <0.05 (2)
14 <0.05 <0.05 (2)
21 <0.05 - 0.04 <0.05 (2)
28 <0.05 - 0.02 <0,05 (3)
35 n.d. n.d. (1)
42 n.d. n.d. (1)
Table 6. (continued)
Crops Dose a.i. No. of Country Interval, Residue mg/kg Report
applications days range average No.
Grains 21 <0.05 - 0.07 <0.05 (2)
28 <0.02 - 0.22 0.09 (3)
35 n.d. n.d. (1)
42 n.d. n.d. (1)
Corn 560 g/ha 3 USA MOBAY
Green forage 0 2.18 - 16.7 10.23 (7) 67456,
3 0.30 - 10.4 3.87 (7) 67457,
7 0.98 - 4.87 1.90 (6) 67459,
14 0.15 - 3.36 1.53 (4) 67491 -
21 0.10 - 2.73 0.85 (4) 67494
Milk stage 0 <0.01 - 0.06 0.03 (7)
kernel 3 <0.01 - 0.04 0.02 (3)
7 <0.01 <0.01 (3)
14 <0.01 <0.01 (3)
21 <0.01 <0.01 (3)
Milk stage 0 <0.01 - 0.16 0.04 (7)
cob 3 <0.01 - 0.07 0.03 (3)
7 <0.01 - 0.01 <0.01 (5)
14 <0.01 <0.01 (3)
21 <0.01 <0.01 (5)
Milk stage 0 0.19 - 1.69 0.84 (7)
husk 3 0.05 - 0.98 0.64 (3)
7 0.27 - 0.56 0.41 (3)
14 <0.01 - 0.56 0.25 (3)
21 <0.01 - 0.09 0.04 (5)
Table 6. (continued)
Crops Dose a.i. No. of Country Interval, Residue mg/kg Report
applications days range average No.
Dry Forage 52/64 <0.01 - 0.13 0.07 (3)
Dry kernel 52/64 <0.01 <0.01 (3)
Dry cob 52/64 <0.01 <0.01 (3)
Dry husk 52/64 <0.01 - 0.04 0.02 (3)
Sorghum 560 g/ha 3 USA MOBAY
Forage 7 1.88 - 2.63 2.26 (2) 41027,
14-16 0.15 - 2.59 0.70 (11) 41028,
21 0.13 - 0.66 0.41 (3) 41031,
28-31 0.09 - 0.22 0.16 (8) 41055,
55 0.09 - 0.18 0.14 (3) 43449,
42/45 0.04 - 0.16 0.12 (7) 46356,
46357,
Grain 7 0.24 - 0.31 0.28 (2) 46545,
14/15 0.05 - 3.00 0.88 (7) 46547,
20/21 0.03 - 1.10 0.58 (4) 46549,
28 <0.01 - 1.11 0.41 (4) 46550,
35 0.03 - 0.86 0.38 (5) 46553,
42/45 0.02 - 0.62 0.23 (8)
Alfalfa 560 g/ha 1 USA 0 6.72 -21.2 12.47 (5) MOBAY
7 1.17 -18.0 5.68 (5) 51193,
14 0.20 - 5.09 1.68 (5) 51199,
21 <0.05 - 1.10 0.32 (5) 51200,
28 0.58 0.58 (1) 51221,
51383
Table 6. (continued)
Crops Dose a.i. No. of Country Interval, Residue mg/kg Report
applications days range average No.
Beans 560 g/ha 2 USA MOBAY
Dry beans 41-48 <0.01 <0.01 (10) 54122,
55-62 <0.01 <0.01 (10) 66523,
69-76 <0.01 <0.01 (10) 66525,
66681,
Dry vines 41-48 <0.01- 0.12 0.02 (10) 67180
60-62 <0.01 - 0.05 0.01 (10) 67185
75/76 <0.01 - 0.05 <0.01 (10)
Bush-beans 225 g/ha 3 FRG BAYER
Beans 0 <0.02 - 0.05 0.03 (2) 4819 -
4 <0.02 - 0.05 0.03 (2) 4820/79
7 <0.04 - 0.05 <0.04 (2)
14 <0.04 - 0.05 <0.04 (2)
21 <0.04 - 0.05 <0.04 (2)
Pods 0 0.04 - 0.06 0.05 (2)
4 n.d. - <0.04 <0.04 (2)
7 n.d. - <0.04 <0.04 (2)
14 n.d. - <0.04 <0.04 (2)
21 n.d. - <0.04 <0.04 (2)
Straw 0 1.83 - 2.09 1.96 (2)
4 0.1 - 0.76 0.43 (2)
7 0.04 - 0.24 0.14 (2)
14 0.04 0.04 (2)
21 <0.03 - 0.04 <0.05 (2)
Table 6. (continued)
Crops Dose a.i. No. of Country Interval, Residue mg/kg Report
applications days range average No.
Pole-beans 300 g/ha 3 FRG 0 <0.04 - 0.56 0.29 (2) BAYER
4 <0.04 - 0.41 0.22 (2) 4821 -
7 <0.04 - 0.25 0.14 (2) 4822/79
14 <0.04 - 0.07 0.05 (2)
21 <0.04 <0.04 (2)
Peas 150 - 2-3 FRG BAYER
Peas and pods 225 g/ha 0 0.08 - 0.32 0.19 (3) 4856 -
4858/75
Peas 0 <0.05 - <0.06 <0.05 (2) 4811 -
4 <0.05 - <0.06 <0.05 (2) 4812/79
7 <0.05 - <0.06 <0.05 (2)
14 <0.02 - 0.07 <0.05 (5)
21 <0.02 - 0.05 <0.05 (5)
28 <0.02 - 0.04 <0.05 (2)
35 <0.02 - <0.04 <0.05 (2)
Pods 0 <0.05 - <0.06 <0.05 (2)
4 <0.05 - <0.06 <0.05 (2)
7 <0.05 - <0.06 <0.05 (2)
14 0.02 - <0.06 <0.05 (5)
21 0.01 - <0.06 <0.05 (5)
28 0.01 - 0.04 <0.05 (2)
35 <0.02 - <0.04 <0.05 (2)
Straw 0 0.40 - 2.32 1.66 (3)
14 <0.05 - <0.06 <0.05 (2)
21 <0.05 <0.05 (1)
35 0.01 - <0.04 0.02 (2)
Table 6. (continued)
Crops Dose a.i. No. of Country Interval, Residue mg/kg Report
applications days range average No.
Cucumbers 150 g/ha 3 FRG 0 <0.02 - <0.05 <0.02 (3) BAYER
1 <0.02 - <0.05 <0.02 (3) 4813 -
4 <0.04 - 0.06 <0.04 (3) 4815/79
7 <0.04 - <0.05 <0.04 (3)
14 <0.04 - <0.05 <0.04 (3)
Kale 150 g/ha 2 FRG 0 1.69 - 3.48 2.59 (2) BAYER
7 <0.06 - 0.28 0.16 (2) 4809 -
14 <0.05 - 0.10 0.06 (2) 4810/79
21 <0.05 - 0.09 0.06 (2)
28 n.d. - <0.05 <0.05 (2)
Brussels 250 g/ha 1 NL 29 n.d. n.d. (2) BAYER
sprouts 4808 -
4809/78
560 g/ha 3 USA 0 0.24 - 2.75 1.42 (5) MOBAY
3/4 0.10 - 1.62 0.77 (5) 68695,
7 0.06 - 0.96 0.46 (4) &9177,
10 0.02 - 0.47 0.26 (5) 82487 -
14/17 0.02 - 0.71 0.31 (5) 82489
Cauliflower 150 g/ha 2 FRG BAYER
Heads 0 <0.03 - <0.05 <0.05 (2) 4810 -
7 <0.03 - <0.05 <0.05 (2) 4812/76
14 <0.03 - <0.05 <0.06 (2) 4805 -
21 <0.03 - <0.05 <0.05 (2) 4806/79
28 <0.03 - <0.05 <0.05 (2)
Table 6. (continued)
Crops Dose a.i. No. of Country Interval, Residue mg/kg Report
applications days range average No.
Stalks 0 <0.02 - <0.05 <0.05 (2)
7 <0.02 - <0.05 <0.05 (2)
14 <0.02 - <0.05 <0.05 (2)
21 <0.02 - <0.05 <0.05 (2)
28 <0.02 - <0.05 <0.05 (2)
Cauliflower, 0 0.08 - 0.21 0.17 (3)
total 7 <0.01 - 0.01 <0.01 (3)
14 <0.01 <0.01 (3)
21 n.d. n.d. (3)
28 n.d. n.d. (3)
White cabbage 150 g/ha 2 FRG 0 0.70 0.70 (1) BAYER
7 <0.04 <0.04 (1) 4805/79
14 <0.04 <0.04 (1)
21 <0.04 <0.04 (1)
28 <0.04 <0.04 (1)
Savoy Cabbage 150 g/ha 2-3 FRG 0 0.35 - 2.55 1.16 (4) BAYER
7 0.03 - 0.15 0.08 (3) 4827/75
14 n.d. - 0.04 <0.04 (4) 4829/75
21/22 n.d. - 0.05 <0.05 (4) 4850/75
28/29 n.d. n.d. (4) 4817/76
36 n.d. n.d. (1)
Kohlrabi 150 g/ha 2 FRG BAYER
Tuber 0 n.d. - <0.06 <0.06 (2) 4804/79
7 n.d. - <0.06 <0.06 (2) 4800/80
14 n.d. - <0.06 <0.06 (2)
21 n.d. - <0.06 <0.06 (2)
28 n.d. - <0.06 <0.06 (2)
Table 6. (continued)
Crops Dose a.i. No. of Country Interval, Residue mg/kg Report
applications days range average No.
Leaves 0 0.48 - 3.59 2.04 (2)
7 <0.06 - 0.62 0.33 (2)
14 <0.06 - 0.22 0.13 (2)
21 n.d. - <0.06 <0.06 (2)
28 n.d. - <0.06 <0.06 (2)
Leek 150 g/ha 2 FRG 0 0.29 - 0.61 0.45 (2) BAYER
7 <0.04 <0.04 (2) 4807 -
14 <0.04 <0.04 (2) 4808/79
21 <0.04 <0.04 (2)
28 <0.04 <0.04 (2)
Head Lettuce 150 g/ha 1 FRG 0 2.0 - 9.1 5.74 (6) BAYER
8 0.25 - 0.79 0.59 (6) 4800 -
14 0.05 - 0.48 0.21 (6) 4802/75
21 0.01 - 0.09 0.03 (6) 4824 -
28 0.01 - 0.02 0.01 (6) 4826/75
560 g/ha 1-3 USA 0 8.15 - 9.58 8.87 (2) MOBAY
3 5.79 - 15.8 9.34 (5) 39674-
6/7 0.16 - 12.5 4.04 (15) 39676,
10-15 0.06 - 5.74 1.37 (25) 41156 -
20-25 <0.01 - 2.85 0.65 (26) 41165,
24-28 <0.04 - 1.35 0.62 (11) 67466,
35 0.10 0.10 (1) 67478 -
Table 6. (continued)
Crops Dose a.i. No. of Country Interval, Residue mg/kg Report
applications days range average No.
42 0.09 0.09 (1) 67480,
67483,
67653 -
67655,
67929 -
67931,
67957,
69462 -
69465
Tomatoes 150 - 3-4 FRG 0 <0.04 - 0.12 0.09 (6) BAYER
225 g/ha 1 <0.04 - 0.29 0.13 (6) 4803 -
4 <0.04 - 0.05 <0.04 (5) 4805/75
7 <0.02 - 0.19 0.08 (6) 4816 -
14 <0.04 - 0.11 0.07 (6) 4818/79
Bulb onions 840 g/ha 3-4 USA 30/31 <0.01 - 0.02 <0.01 (11) MOBAY
31518 -
31523,
31577 -
31579,
31632,
31691
Peppers 560 g/ha 2 USA 0 n.d - 4.9 0.7 (9) MOBAY
2-4 0.1 - 1.6 0.4 (9) 18311 -
6/7 n.d. - 2.(] 1.0 (2) 18317
14 0.2 - 0.7 0.5 (2) 18329,
18330
Table 6. (continued)
Residues calculated as demeton-S-methyl
* Residues calculated as demeton-S-methyl sulphoxide
Values in parentheses indicate number of individual results.
Table 7. Residues from the use of Demeton-S-methyl sulphone in trials on various crops
Crops Dose a.i. No. of Country Residue mg/kg Report
applications Interval, range average No.
days
Apples 0.015 % 4-6 FRG 0 0.21 - 0.89 0.43 (7) BAYER
10 <0.01 - 0.33 0.16 (3) 4201/78
14 0.10 - 0.36 0.21 (4) 4200 -
21 <0.01 - 0.33 0.15 (7) 4202/79
28 n.d. - 0.47 0.12 (7) 4200 -
35 n.d. - 0.37 0.09 (Z) 4201/82
4210/82
Pears 0.015 % 4-5 FRG 0 0.01 - 0.49 0.29 (3) BAYER
10 n.d. - 0.25 0.13 (3) 4203 -
21 n.d. - 0.09 0.05 (3) 4204/82
28 n.d. - 0.07 0.04 (3) 4211/82
35 n.d. - 0.06 0.03 (3)
Strawberries 0.015 % 4-5 FRG 25 0.05 - 0.06 0.06 (2) BAYER
28 0.02 - 0.04 0.03 (3) 459 -
34 0.01 - 0.02 0.02 (3) 461/73
41 n.d. n.d. (3)
Currants, black 0.015 % 3 FRG 0 1.24 - 2.53 1.82 (3) BAYER
7 0.84 - 1.33 1.10 (3) 4203 -
14 0.46 - 0.55 0.49 (3) 4205/76
21 0.29 - 0.59 0.43 (3)
28 0.15 - 0.22 0.18 (3)
35 0.05 - 0.10 0.08 (3)
Table 7. (continued)
Crops Dose a.i. No. of Country Residue mg/kg Report
applications Interval, range average No.
days
Currants, red 0.015 % 3 FRG 0 0.42 - 1.02 0.70 (3) BAYER
21 0.07 - 0.54 0.23 (3) 4203-
28 0.04 - 0.32 0.13 (3) 4205/75
35 0.03 - 0.12 0.06 (3)
42 0.04 - 0.14 0.07 (3)
Cherries 0.015 % 3 FRG 0 1.58 - 2.33 2.00 (3) BAYER
14 0.69 - 1.06 0.78 (3) 4204 -
21 0.37 - 0.55 0.45 (3) 4206/78
28 0.19 - 0.22 0.20 (3)
35 0.14 - 0.27 0.19 (3)
Plums 0.015 % 5 FRG 0 0.04 - 1.1 0.54 (5) BAYER
14 0.05 - 1.6 0.44 (5) 4202 -
21 0.07 - 0.57 0.25 (5) 4203/78
28 0.05 - 0.56 0.25 (5) 4203 -
35 0.04 - 0.54 0.22 (5) 4205/79
Grapes 0.015 % 3 FRG 0 0.13 - 2.14 0.92 (7) BAYER
35 0.04 - 0.85 0.34 (7) 4207/77
42 0.03 - 0.34 0.17 (7) 4207 -
49 0.03 - 0.26 0.14 (7) 4210/78
56 0.02 - 0.34 0.13 (7) 4206 -
63 0.02 - 0.17 0.10 (2) 4207/79
Must 49-63 0.01 - 0.48 0.09 (8)
Wine 49-65 0.01 - 0.5 0.11 (8)
Residues calculated as demeton-S-methyl
Values in parentheses indicate number of individual results.
Demeton-S-methyl sulphone was not found to be degradable by
direct irradiation in the environment, (Wilmes 1982).
In a study of the soil thin-layer mobility of 24 pesticides on
six different soil types ranging from a non-adsorptive sand to a
fine-textured clay, oxydemeton-methyl showed a relatively high
mobility related to its relatively high solubility in water (Thornton
et al, 1976).
Oxydemeton-methyl (methoxy-14C) was incubated at 23°C for 60
days with a silt loam and a loamy soil. Seventy-five and 79% of the
radioactivity was recovered as 14CO2 during that period,
respectively. Only 1% of the activity was organosoluble at that time.
Small amounts of residue were associated with water-soluble and
mineral residues, and with humic and fulvic acids. Most of the fulvic
acid residues was dializable (Houseworth and Tweedy, 1974).
Oxydemeton-methyl was extensively degraded on silt under aerobic
conditions, as shown by the generation of large amounts of 14CO2
from both the ethylene- and the methoxy-label (59% and 79% after 57
and 49 days respectively). Nearly all of the remaining 14C from each
label was unextractable. The degradation of the parent compound under
anaerobic conditions was also fast (half-life of less than one day),
but was not complete since after 57 days 24% of the 14C was still
extractable while only 8% appeared as 14CO2. Four water-soluble soil
metabolites were identified together with five organosoluble
metabolites. Metabolic pathways are shown in Figure 1 (Phul and
Hurley, 1978).
Oxydemeton-methyl is degraded by Pseudomonas putida 1453 by
cleavage of the thioester bond to form three major compounds:
2-(ethylsulphinyl) ethanethiol, 2-(ethylsulphonyl) ethanethiol and
bis/-2-(ethylsulphinyl) ethyl/disulphide. Nocardia sp. DSM 43252
converts the insecticide into another three metabolites:
bis/-2-(ethylsulphonyl)ethyl-disulphide,bis-2-(ethylsulphinyl
ethyl-sulphide, and bis-2-(ethylsulphonyl)ethyl-sulphide, via
oxidation, elimination and hydrolysis. 0,0-Dimethyl phosphorothioate
had been detected in the aqueous layer of the medium (Ziegler et
al, 1980).
Twenty-eight days after the application of
-ethylene-1-14C-demeton-S-methyl sulphone to soil (standard soil 1,
type 2.2 as specified in BBA (Federal Biological Agency) Bulletin No.
36, 2nd edition, 30% of the 14C activity was seen to have been
eliminated as 14CO2.
The following transformation products of demeton-S-methyl
sulphone representing intermediates in mineralization, were isolated
and identified by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and mass
spectrometry.
2-Ethylsulphonylethane sulphonic acid (VI) was identified as the
main transformation product of demeton-S-methyl sulphone in soil. The
concentration of this highly polar compound increased continuously
with time, reaching a maximum of 10.8% of the applied radioactivity
after 73 days. The markedly less polar 2-ethylsulphonylethanethiol
(IV), soluble in water and methanol, accounted for up to 3.7%.
The highly polar compound (II) peaked at a concentration of 4.9%
after 31 days. After 126 days, it was still detectable at a
concentration of 1.9%/(III) was detectable only in very small amounts
(<1%).
The relatively non-polar oxidation product of IV, the disulphide
(V), reached a maximal concentration of 2.2% after 73 days. After 126
days, it was detectable only in very small amounts (0.66%). A
non-polar degradation product VII (1.1% of the applied 14C) could not
be identified.
In comparison with the 14CO2 balance study, the experiments to
identify the structures of the degradation products were conducted
with substantially higher parent compound concentrations. It is known
that a highly increased parent compound concentration may lead to
delayed mineralization. On the other hand, this frequently results in
an accumulation of intermediates which under "normal" reaction
conditions can be detected only with difficulty or perhaps not at all.
Figure 2 shows the probable pathways of demeton-S-methyl sulphone
degradation in soil (Wagner and Oehlmann, 1980). To study the effects
of plant growth and time on residues of 14C oxydemeton-methyl in
soil, corn and cotton were grown in [14C] oxydemeton-methyl treated
soil and harvested. After the soil had lain fallow, alfalfa and corn
were grown in the treated soil, a portion of which had been extracted
with methanol/water, and subsequently harvested.
[14C] oxydemeton-methyl treated soils contained 16% of the
radioactivity as residue when the initial corn and cotton plants were
harvested. These plants absorbed 1.2% of the applied material. Soils
still contained 13% of the radioactivity(all was bound) one year after
treatment. Rotational crops of alfalfa and corn, grown in extracted
14C. No significant difference in residue uptake was detected between
plants grown in extracted and non-extracted soil (Shaw II, 1975).
RESIDUES IN FOOD IN COMMERCE OR AT CONSUMPTION
United Kingdom, 1982
Samples of lettuce taken at the point of retail sale (July
1981 - April 1982) were analysed, using a multi-residues procedure.
The limit of determination of demeton-S-methyl (as the sulphone) was
0.01 mg/kg and the recovery 80%. Results are shown in Table 8.
Table 8. Residues of demeton-S-methyl in lettuce at point of retail
sale.
Total number Residues range Number in
analysed mg/kg range
Home-grown(UK) 65 < 0.1 56
0.1 - 0.5 5
0.5 - 1.0 3
2.6 1
Imported 101 < 0.1 101
166 166
A further 47 samples of imported lettuce (22 from The
Netherlands, 8 from the U.S.A., 6 from Spain, 5 from Israel, 4 from
France, 1 each from Rumania and Cyprus) were examined for a range of
organophosphorus pesticide residues in late 1981. The modified Watts
et al. method with oxidation step was used. Recoveries were 80-95%
and the limit of determination less than one tenth of the MRL. No
residues of the demeton-S-methyl group were found in these samples.
24 samples of top fruit, obtained direct from growers in the
UK in 1982, were examined for a range of pesticides using a
multi-residues procedure. Recovery of added demeton-S-methyl,
determined as the sulphone, was 90-100%. Three samples had been
sprayed with a demeton-S-methyl formulation and the residues data
obtained were:
Date of Interval between Residues,
Samples harvest last application mg/kg
and harvest (days)
Apples: Discovery 20/8 54 < 0.05
Millers seedlings 20/8 54 < 0.05
Plums: 2/8 84 < 0.05
Residues data on soft fruit both from retail outlets and direct
from growers were obtained in May-August 1982. A range of pesticides
was analysed for, using a multi-residues procedure. The limit of
determination was 0.05 mg/kg and recoveries were 66% and 75%. Results
are shown in Table 9.
Samples were also obtained direct from growers (17 strawberries,
6 gooseberries, 14 currants, 16 berries) and only one sample (of
gooseberries) showed detectable residue of demeton-S-methyl (0.10;
0.25mg/kg) after 32 days between last application and harvest.
METHODS OF RESIDUE ANALYSIS
Hill et al. (1984) have reported a study on the experimental
conditions for the routine quantitative determination of the
residues of a number of organophosphorus pesticides, including
demeton-S-methyl, following conversion to the sulphones.
NATIONAL MAXIMUM RESIDUE LIMITS
National MRLs, as listed in Table 10, were reported to the
meeting (effective March 1983).
APPRAISAL
The meeting considered data from residue trials on a number of
crops. In general the results of the trials support the maximum
residue levels previously estimated in 1973 and enabled the meeting to
estimate maximum levels for several new commodities, namely cherries
(1 mg/kg), kale (0.2), bulb vegetables (0.1, tomatoes (0.2) and
peppers (1).
The meeting proposed a group GL of 0.2 mg/kg for brassica leafy
vegetables to replace separate GLs of 0.2 mg/kg for broccoli, Brussels
sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower and kale. The commodity description of
cereals ("raw cereals") was redefined as "cereal grains."
Table 9. Demeton-S-methyl residues in retail samples of soft fruit
Fruit Number of samples Residues mg/kg
examined
Strawberries (UK-produced) 23 one 0.16; one 0.79;
others not detectable (ND)
Strawberries (imported) 18 ND
Gooseberries (UK) 8 ND
Black/red currants (UK) 13 ND
Berries (raspberries, loganberries,
blackberries) (UK) 15 ND
Table 10. National Maximum Residue Limits
Oxydemeton-methyl
Country Crop/Commodity Safety MRL
intervals (mg/kg)
(days)
Australia 1) cereals 0.5
herbs 0.5
hops 0.5
macadamia nuts 0.05 2)
oil seed 0.5
pome fruit 0.5
stone fruit 0.5
strawberries 0.5
tomatoes 0.5
vegetables 0.5
water 0.03
Austria cereals 35 0.4 3)
fruit 35 0.4 3)
potatoes 35 0.2 3)
sugar beets 35 0.4 3)
vegetables (excl. 35 0.4 3)
carrots)
other crops 0.05 3)
Belgium carrots 28 0 3)
fruit (excl. citrus) 28 0.4 3)
potatoes 28 0.1 3)
sugar beets 28
vegetables (excl. 28 0.4 3)
carrots)
Table 10. (continued)
Country Crop/Commodity Safety MRL
intervals (mg/kg)
(days)
Brazil 3) apples 1.0
barley 0.2
cotton 0.2
cucumbers 0.2
eggplants 0.2
maize 0.2
melons 0.2
oats 0.2
peaches 1.0
pears 0.5
plums 1.0
potatoes 0.2
pumpkins 0.2
quinces 0.5
rice 0.2
rosemallow 0.05 2)
rye 0.2
sorghum 0.2
tomatoes 0.5
wheat 0.2
eggs (shell-free) 0.05 2)
meat 0.05 2)
milk 0.05 2)
Table 10. (continued)
Country Crop/Commodity Safety MRL
intervals (mg/kg)
(days)
Canada barley 0.1 2)
beans 0.1 2)
brassicas 0.1 2)
caneberries 0.1 2)
cucumbers 0.1 2)
maize 0.1 2)
melons 0.1 2)
oats 0.1 2)
peas 0.1 2)
potatoes 0.1 2)
pumpkins 0.1 2)
strawberries 0.1 2)
sugar beets 0.1 2)
turnips 0.1 2)
wheat 0.1 2)
Cyprus citurs fruit 20
grapes 20
pome fruit 20
potatoes 20
stone fruit 20
vegetables 20
Denmark general 4) 28
European carrots 0
Community 5) other crops 0.4
Finland fodder crops 0.4 7)
food crops 0.4 7)
fruit 35
Table 10. (continued)
Country Crop/Commodity Safety MRL
intervals (mg/kg)
(days)
France beets 21
carrots 0 6)
cereals 21
fruit 21 0.4 6)
grapes 21
vegetables (excl. 0.4 6)
carrots)
Germany, berry fruit (excl. 21/28 8)
Federal Republic strawberries)
brassicas (excl. 21
cabbage)
cabbage 14/21 8) 0.5 3)
carrots 21
cereals 21 0.2 3)
currants 2.0 3)
field beans 21 0.5 3)
fodder beets 28
fruiting vegetables 4
grapes 42/60 8) 2.0 3)
hops 21 0.05 3)
legume vegetables (excl. 7 0.5 3)
field beans)
lettuce 14
leafy vegetables 14 0.5 3)
peaches 28 1.0 3)
plums 28 1.0 3)
pome fruit 28 1.0 3)
potatoes 14/21 8) 2.0 3)
root vegetables 21
Table 10. (continued)
Country Crop/Commodity Safety MRL
intervals (mg/kg)
(days)
stem vegetables 14 0.5 3)
stone fruit 28 0.5 3)
sugar beets 28 0.1 3)
tobacco 7
vegetables (excl. 0.5 3)
carrots)
other fruit 0.5 3)
other food crops 0.05 3)
Great Britain apples, apricots, beans,
blackberries, brassicas,
carrots, celery, cereals
(excl. barley and wheat)
cherries, cucumbers (under
glass), currants (black,
red and white), fodder
beets, gooseberries,
lettuce (under glass),
log anberries, mangels,
nuts, parsnip, peaches,
Dears, Deas, plums (incl.
damsons), potatoes,
raspberries, strawberries,
sugar beets,, tomatoes
(under glass) 21
barley, pastures, wheat 14
fodder beets (silage),
mangels (silage) 10
Table 10. (continued)
Country Crop/Commodity Safety MRL
intervals (mg/kg)
(days)
India coffee, cotton 25
mangoes, peanuts 30
Israel almonds, apples, beans,
brassicas, citrus
fruit, cotton,
cucumbers, eggplants,
fruit, grapes, melons,
peas, peppers, potatoes,
pumpkins, sugar beets,
tomatoes, zucchinis 21
Italy carrots 20
fruit 20 0.4 9)
vegetables (excl. 20 0.4 9)
carrots)
Japan apples 30
Luxembourg 5) carrots 0.05
cereals 0.2
currants 2.0
grapes 2.0
plums 1.0
pome fruit 1.0
potatoes 0.2
vegetables (excl. 0.5
carrots)
other fruit 0.5
other food crops 0.05
Table 10. (continued)
Country Crop/Commodity Safety MRL
intervals (mg/kg)
(days)
Mexico alfalfa 14/21 8) 5.0
apples 30 1.0
beans (green) 21 0.5
broccoli 7 1.0
Brussels sprouts 24
cabbage 7 1.0
cantaloupes 14 0.3
cauliflowers 7/14 8)
chick peas 21 0.3
chilli 14
citrus fruit 30
cucumbers 14 1.0
eggplants 7/14 8) 1.0
grades 30/90 8) 0.1
kale 24
lettuce 14 2.0
maize 7/14 8) 0.5
melons (excl. 14
watermelons )
onions 30 0.05
oranges 7 1.0
pears 30 0.3
pecans 30 0.3
peppers 0.75
plums 30
potatoes 7 0.1
pumpkins 14 1.0
safflowers 7 1.0
sorghum 45 0.75
strawberries 14 2.0
watermelons 7 0.3
zucchinis 14
Table 10. (continued)
Country Crop/Commodity Safety MRL
intervals (mg/kg)
(days)
Netherlands beans 28 0.4 6)
blackberries 28
broccoli 28 0.4 6)
Brussels sprouts 28 0.4 6)
cauliflowers 28 0.4 6 )
cereals 28 0.1 6)
cherries 28
curr ants 28
kale 28
peaches 28
peas 28 0.4 6)
plums 28
potatoes 28 0.05 6)
r aspb err i es 28
small fruit (field grown) 28 0.4 6)
strawberries 28
Pakistan chilli 60
rape (oilcake) 60
Portugal field crops 35
fruit (incl. 35
strawberries)
pastures 14
potatoes 35
vegetables 35
Table 10. (continued)
Country Crop/Commodity Safety MRL
intervals (mg/kg)
(days)
South Africa apples 21 0.4 6)
apricots 0.4 6)
beans 10 0.2 6)
Brussels sprouts 14 0.2 6)
cabbage 14 0.2 6)
cauliflowers 14 0.2 6)
citrus fruit 21 0.5 6)
cottonseed 0.1 6)
cucurbits 21
eggplants 0.2 6)
maize (green) 0.2 6)
olives 0.1 6)
onions 0.1 6)
peaches 21 0.4 6)
peanuts 0.1 6)
pears 21 0.4 6)
peppers 0.2 6)
plums 0.4 6)
potatoes 21 0.2 6)
rooibos tea 0.1 6)
sorghum 0.2 6)
tomatoes 21 0.2 6)
wheat 0.2 6)
other Cruciferae 10 0.2 6)
Spain 5) beets 30
carrots 0
cereals 30
cotton 30
fruit 30 0.4
vegetables (excl. carrots) 0.4
Table 10. (continued)
Country Crop/Commodity Safety MRL
intervals (mg/kg)
(days)
Sweden 6) bran 0.2
cereals 0.2
flour (cereals) 0.1
fruit 0.4
oat flakes 0.1
potatoes 0.2
vegetables 0.4
wheat flakes 0.1
Switzerland fruit (excl. cherries) 42 0.4 9)
sugar beets 42 0.4 9)
Taiwan apples 30
Thailand bananas, citrus fruit,
coffee, cotton, grapes,
maize, mung beans,
peanuts, potatoes, rice,
sorghum, soybeans, sugar-
cane, tea, tobacco,
vegetables 28-30
USA alfalfa 21
alfalfa, chaff and 11.0
hay (grown for seed)
alfalfa, green 5.0
apples 1.0
beans 21
blackberries 7 2.0
broccoli 7 1.0
Brussels sprouts 3 1.0
Table 10. (continued)
Country Crop/Commodity Safety MRL
intervals (mg/kg)
(days)
cabbage 7 1.0
cauliflowers 7
clover 21
clover, chaff and 11.0
hay (grown for seed)
clover, green 5.0
cotton 14
cotton seed 0.1
cucumbers 1.0
eggplants 7 1.0
filberts 105 0.05
grapes 90 0.1
lemons 7 1.0
lettuce 14/28 10) 2.0
lettuce 21 11) 2.0
lima bean forage 2.0
lima beans 0.5
maize (field-, sweet-, 7
corn, popcorn, grain
and forage)
maize (fodder and forage) 3.0
maize, grain (incl. 0.5
fresh corn, sweet corn,
kernels and cob)
melons 14 0.3
mint 14
mint hay 12.5
onions, dry bulb 0.05
onions (span.) 30
oranges 7 1.0
peppers 0.75
Table 10. (continued)
Country Crop/Commodity Safety MRL
intervals (mg/kg)
(days)
pea forage 21 2.0
pea hay 21 8.0
pears 30 0.3
peas 21 0.3
plums 35 1.0
potatoes 7 0.1
prunes 35
pumpkins 14 0.3
raspberries 7 2.0
safflower 7 1.0
snap bean forage 2.0
snap beans 0.5
sorghum (milled 2.0
fraction except flour)
sorghum forage 21 2.0
sorghum grain 45 0.75
spearmint 14
strawberries 3
sugar beets 30 0.3
sugar beet tops 30 0.5
summer squash 1 1.0
turnips 7 0.3
turnip tops 21 2.0
walnuts 30 0.3
winter squash 14 0.3
meat, fat and meat-by- 0.01
products of cattle,
goats, horses, pigs
and sheep
milk 0.01
Table 10. (continued)
Country Crop/Commodity Safety MRL
intervals (mg/kg)
(days)
Yugoslavia field crops 28
fruit 28 0.5 6)
grapes 28
hops 28
sugar beets 28 0.5 6)
other food crops 0.05 6)
1) = Demeton including demeton-O, demeton-S, demeton-O-methyl, demeton-S-methy and
oxydemeton-methyl
2) = Level at or about the limit of determination
3) = Sum of oxydemeton-methyl, demeton-S-methyl and demeton-S-methyl sulphone expressed
as demeton-S-methyl
4) = No application to crops with a short vegetation period
5) = Sum of oxydemeton-methyl, demeton-S-methyl and demeton-S-methyl sulphone separately
calculated or expressed as demeton-S-methyl
6) = Sum of oxydemeton-methyl, demeton-S-methyl and demeton-S-methyl sulphone
7) = Preliminary
8) = Depending on formulation
9) = Sum of oxydemeton-methyl and demeton-S-methyl sulphone separately calculated or
expressed as demeton-S-methyl sulphone
10) = In California and Arizona, depending on application rate
11) = In other States
Table 10. (continued)
Country Crop/Commodity Safety MRL
intervals (mg/kg)
(days)
demeton-S-methyl sulphone
(in "Gusathion MS")
Austria 1) cereals 0.2
fruit 0.4
potatoes 0.2
sugar beets 0.4
vegetables (excl. 0.4
carrots)
other crops 0.05
Belgium 1) carrots 0
fruit 42
fruit (excl. citrus) 0.4
vegetables (excl. 0.4
carrots)
Brazil 1) apples 1.0
barley 0.2
cotton 0.1
cucumbers 0.2
eggplants 0.2
maize 0.2
melons 0.2
oats 0.2
peaches 1.0
pears 0.5
plums 1.0
potatoes 0.2
pumpkins 0.2
Table 10. (continued)
Country Crop/Commodity Safety MRL
intervals (mg/kg)
(days)
quinces 0.5
rice 0.2
rosemallow 0.05
rye 0.2
sorghum 0.2
tomatoes 0.5
watermelons 0.2
wheat 0.2
eggs (shell-free) 0.05 2)
meat 0.05 2)
milk 0.05 2)
Denmark carrots 0.05 2)
cereals (raw) 0.2
fruit 0.5
grapes 0.5
potatoes 0.2
vegetables (excl. 0.5
carrots)
other root crops 0.5
animals fat 0.05 2)
eggs 0.05 2)
meat 0.05 2)
milk 0.05 2)
milk products 0.05 2)
European carrots 0
Community 3) other crops 0.4
Table 10. (continued)
Country Crop/Commodity Safety MRL
intervals (mg/kg)
(days)
France beets 21
carrots 0 4)
fruit 21 0.4 4)
grapes 21
pot atos 21
vegetables (excl. 0.4 4)
carrots)
Germany, cereals 0.2 1)
Federal Republic cherries 28 0.5 1)
currants 2.0 1)
grapes 49 2.0 1)
peaches 1.0 1)
plums 35 1.0 1)
pome fruit 28 1.0 1)
potatoes 0.2 1)
prunes 35
sugar beets 0.1 1)
vegetables (excl. 0.1 1)
carrots)
other fruit 0.5 1)
other food crops 0.05 1)
Italy apples 35
beets 35
carrots 0 3)
citrus fruit 35
fruit 0.4 3)
grapes 35
peaches 35
Table 10. (continued)
Country Crop/Commodity Safety MRL
intervals (mg/kg)
(days)
pears 35
potatoes 35
vegetables (excl. 35 0.4 3)
carrots)
Luxembourg 5) carrots 0.05
cereals 0.2
currants 2.0
grapes 2.0
plums 1.0
pome fruit 1.0
potatoes 0.2
vegetables (excl. 0.5
carrots)
other fruit 0.5
other food crops 0.05
Netherlands 4) beans 0.4
berry fruit (field grown) 0.4
brassicas 0.4
cereals 0.05
peas 0.4
potatoes 0.05
Portugal apples 21
citrus fruit 91
pastures 14
pears 21
Table 10. (continued)
Country Crop/Commodity Safety MRL
intervals (mg/kg)
(days)
South Africa 4) apples 0.4
apricots 0.4
beans 0.2
citrus fruit 0.5
cottons eed 0.1
cruciferae 0.2
eggplants 0.2
maize (green) 0.2
olives 0.1
onions 0.1
peaches 0.4
peanuts 0.1
pears 0.4
peppers 0.2
plums 0.4
potatoes 0.2
rooibos tea 0.1
sorghum 0.2
tomatoes 0.2
wheat 0.2
Spain carrots 0 3)
cotton 28
fruit 0.4 3)
pome fruit 28 0.4 3)
stone fruit 28 0.4 3)
vegetables (excl. 0.4 3)
carrots)
Table 10. (continued)
Country Crop/Commodity Safety MRL
intervals (mg/kg)
(days)
Sweden 4) bran 0.2
cereals 0.2
flour (cereals) 0.2
fruit 0.4
oat flakes 0.1
potatoes 0.2
vegetables 0.4
wheat flakes 0.1
Switzerland fruit 42 0.4 6)
sugar beets 42 0.4 6)
USA alfalfa, chaff 11.0
and hay (for seed)
alfalfa, green 5.0
apples 1.0
blackberries 2.0
broccoli 1.0
Brussels sprouts 1.0
cabbage 1.0
cauliflower 1.0
clover, chaff and 11.0
hay (grown for seed)
clover, green 5.0
cottons eed 0.1
cucumbers 1.0
eggplants 1.0
filberts 0.3
grapefruit 1.0
grapes 0.1
Table 10. (continued)
Country Crop/Commodity Safety MRL
intervals (mg/kg)
(days)
lemons 1.0
lettuce, head 2.0
lima bean forage 2.0
lima beans 0.5
maize, fodder and 3.0
forage
maize, grain (incl. 0.5
fresh corn, sweet corn,
kernels and cobs)
melons 0.3
mint hay 12.5
onions, dry bulb 0.05
oranges 1.0
pea forage 2.0
pea hay 8.0
pears 0.3
peas 0.3
peppermint (dried) 12.5
peppers 0.75
plums (fresh prunes) 1.0
potatoes 0.1
pumpkins 0.3
raspberries 2.0
safflower 1.0
snap bean foraoe 2.0
snap beans 0.5
sorghum forage 2.0
sorghum, grain 0.75
sorghum (milled 2.0
fraction except flour)
squash, summer 1.0
Table 10. (continued)
Country Crop/Commodity Safety MRL
intervals (mg/kg)
(days)
squash, winter 0.3
strawberries 2.0
sugar beets 0.3
sugar beet tops 0.5
turnips 0.3
turnip tops 2.0
walnuts 0.3
meat, fat and 0.01
meat by-products of
cattle, goats, horses,
pigs and sheep
milk 0.01
Yugoslavia 4) fruit 0.5
sugar beets 0.5
other food crops 0.05
1) = Sum of demeton-S-methyl sulphone, demeton-S-methyl and oxydemeton-methyl expressed as
demeton-S-methyl
2) = Level at or about the limit of determination
3) = Sum of demeton-S-methyl sulphone, demeton-S-methyl and oxydemeton-methyl separately
calculated or expressed as dEmeton-S-methyl sulphone
4) = Sum of demeton-S-methyl sulphone, demeton-S-methyl and oxydeaeton-methyl
5) = Sum of demeton-S-methyl sulphone, demeton-S-methyl and oxydemeton-methyl separately
calculated or expressed as demeton-S-methyl
6) = Sum of demeton-S-methyl sulphone and oxydemeton-methyl separately calculated or
expressed as demeton-S-methyl sulphone
Table 10. (continued)
Country Crop/Commodity Safety MRL
intervals (mg/kg)
(days)
Demeton-S-methyl
Australia 1) cereals 21 0.5
cotton 21
field crops 21
herbs 0.5
hops 21 0.5
macadamia nuts 0.05 2)
oil seed 0.5
pastures 3
pome fruit 21 0.5
potatoes 21
rape 21
root crops 21
stock food 3
stone fruit 21 0.5
strawberries 0.5
tobacco 21
tomatoes 21 0.5
vegetables 21 0.5
water 0.03
Austria cereals 35 0.4 3)
field crops 35
fruit 35 0.4 3)
grapes 35 0.05 3)
potatoes 35 0.2 3)
sugar beets 35 0.4 3)
vegetables (excl. 35 0.4 3)
carrots)
Table 10. (continued)
Country Crop/Commodity Safety MRL
intervals (mg/kg)
(days)
other registered 0.05 3)
crops
Belgium beets 28
carrots 28 0 3)
fruit (excl. citrus) 28 0.4 3)
hops 28
pastures 10
potatoes 28 0.1 3)
vegetables (excl. 28 0.4 3)
carrots)
Brazil 1) apples 21 1.0
barley 21 0.2
cotton 14 0.2
cucumbers 21 0.2
eggpl ants 21 0.2
maize 21 0.2
melons 21 0.2
oats 21 0.2
peaches 21 1.0
pears 21 0.5
plums 21 1.0
potatoes 7 0.2
pumpkins 21 0.2
quinces 21 0.5
rice 21 0.2
rosemallow 21 0.05
rye 21 0.2
sorghum 21 0.2
tomatoes 21 0.5
wheat 21 0.2
Table 10. (continued)
Country Crop/Commodity Safety MRL
intervals (mg/kg)
(days)
eggs (shell-free) 0.05 2)
meat 0.05 2)
milk 0.05 2)
France carrots 0 6)
fruit 0.4 6)
vegetables (excl. 0.4 6)
carrots)
Germany, cereals 0.2 3)
Federal Republic currants 2.0 3)
fodder beets 28
grapes 2.0 3)
peaches 1.0 3)
plums 1.0 3)
pome fruit 1.0 3)
potatoes 14 2.0 3)
sugar beets 28 0.1 3)
vegetables (excl. 0.5 3)
carrots
other fruit 0.5 3)
other food crops 0.05 3)
Great Britain apples, apricots, beans,
beetroot, blackberries,
brassicas, carrots,
celery, cereals (excl.
barley and wheat),
cherries, cucumbers
(under glass), currants
Table 10. (continued)
Country Crop/Commodity Safety MRL
intervals (mg/kg)
(days)
(black, red and white),
fodder beets, goose-
berries, lettuce (field
grown, and under glass),
loganberries, mangels,
nuts, parsnip, peaches,
Dears, peas, plums,
potatoes, raspberries,
strawberries, sugar beets,
tomatoes (under glass) 21
barley, pastures, wheat 14
fodder beets (silage), 10
mangels (silage)
Hungary general 30 0.5
Israel apples 1.0
blueberries 2.0
beans 0.2
brassicas 0.2
broccoli 0.2
cereals 0.2
citrus fruit 0.5
cottons eed 0.1
eggplants 0.2
fodder 5.0
forage 10.0
grapes 2.0
lettuce 0.5
peaches 1.0
pears 0.5
Table 10. (continued)
Country Crop/Commodity Safety MRL
intervals (mg/kg)
(days)
peas 0.2
peppers 0.2
plums 1.0
potatoes 0.2
pumpkins 0.2
strawberries 0.5
sugar beets 0.1
tomatoes 0.2
zucchinis 0.5
eggs (shell-free) 0.05
meat and fat of 0.05
cattle, pigs,
poultry and sheep
milk 0.05
milk products 0.05
Italy carrots 20 0 4)
fruit 20 0.4 4)
vegetables (excl. 20 0.4 4)
carrots )
Luxembourg 7) carrots 0.05
cereals 0.2
currants 2.0
grapes 2.0
plums 1.0
pome fruit 1.0
potatoes 0.2
vegetables (excl. 0.5
carrots)
Table 10. (continued)
Country Crop/Commodity Safety MRL
intervals (mg/kg)
(days)
other fruit 0.5
other food crops 0.05
Netherlands 5) beans 0.4
berry fruit (field grown) 0.4
brassicas 0.4
cereals 0.5
peas 0.4
potatoes 0.05
New Zealand alfalfa 7
apples 21/35 8)
broad beans 21/35 8)
Brussels sprouts 21/35 8)
cabbage 21/35 8)
cauliflower 21/35 8)
cereals 21/35 8)
cocksfoot 21/35 8)
currants 21/35 8)
(red and black)
marrow stemmed 21/35 8)
pastures 14
pears 21/35 8)
potatoes 21/35 8)
rape 21/35 8)
raspberries 21/35 8)
strawberries 21/35 8)
turnips 21/35 8)
Table 10. (continued)
Country Crop/Commodity Safety MRL
intervals (mg/kg)
(days)
Norway berry fruit 28 9)
cereals 28 9)
pome fruit 28 9)
Peru citrus fruit 28
cucurbits 28-42
wheat 14
Poland apples, carrots,
cauliflower, cherries
(excl. early species),
curly kale, dill,
mustard, peaches, pears,
peas, plums, raspberries,
rutabagas, spinach,
strawberries 42 0.4
carrots (animal feed),
field beans, fodder
beets, hops, peas
(animal feed), potatoes,
rape, sugar beets,
tobacco 42
fruit, vegetables 0.4
South Africa 5) apples 21 0.4
apricots 21 0.4
beans 10 0.2
citrus fruit 0.5
cotton (as feed stuff) 21 0.1
Table 10. (continued)
Country Crop/Commodity Safety MRL
intervals (mg/kg)
(days)
cotton (harvest) 5
cruciferae 10-14 0.2
eggplants 21 0.2
maize 21 0.2
maize (green) 0.2
olives 90 0.1
onions (green) 21 0.1
peaches 21 0.4
peanuts 21 0.1
pears 21 0.4
peas 21
peppers 14 0.2
plums 21 0.4
potatoes 21 0.2
rooibos tea 0.1
sorghum 21 0.2
tomatoes 21 0.2
wheat 21 0.2
Spain 4) carrots 0
fruit 0.4
vegetables (excl. 0.4
carrots)
Sweden 5) bran 0.2
cereals 28 0.2
flour (cereals) 0.1
fruit (incl. 28 0.4
berry fruit)
oat flakes 0.1
Table 10. (continued)
Country Crop/Commodity Safety MRL
intervals (mg/kg)
(days)
potatoes 28 0.2
vegetables (incl. 28 0.4
root vegetables)
wheat flakes 0.1
Yugoslavia 5) fruit 0.5
sugar beets 0.5
other food crops 0.05
RECOMMENDATIONS
The following maximum residue levels are recorded as suitable for
use as guideline levels.
GL Interval on which
(mg/kg) GLs are based
(days)
cherries 1 35
bulb vegetables 0.1 21
brassica leafy vegetables 0.2 21
tomatoes 0.2 3
peppers 1 14
cereal grains 0.2 (replacing "raw cereals" at
the same level)
REFERENCES
Hill, A.R.C., Wilkins, J.P.G. Findlay Nina, R.I. and Lontay Karen E.M.
1984 Organophosphorus sulphides, sulphoxides and sulphones. Part
1. Determination of Residues in Fruit and Vegetables by Gas-
Liquid Chromotography. Analyst 109 483.
Houseworth, L.D., Tweedy, B.G. : The metabolism of METASYSTOX-R in
1974 soil. Mobay Report No. 39219.
Nichols, S.S., Thornton, J.S. Photodecomposition of METASYSTOX-R in
1978 aqueous solution and on silt loam soil. Mobay Report No.
54412.
Phul, R.J., Hurley, J.B. The aerobic and anaerobic soil metabolism of
1978 METASYSTOX-R. Mobay Report No. 63056.
Shaw, H.R., II: Determination of soil-bound residues and uptake by
1975 rotational crops from soil treated with METASYSTOX-R. Mobay
Report No. 43971, (revised, April 11, 1975).
Thornton, J.S. The effects of feeding METASYSTOX-R to chickens. Mobay
1975 Report No. 46081.
Thornton, J.S., Hurley, J.B., Obrist, J.J.: Soil thin-layer mobility
1976 of twenty-four pesticide chemicals. Mobay Report No. 51016.
Wagner, K., Oehlmann, L. Metabolism of demeton-S-methyl sulphone in
1980 soil. Bayer AG, PF-A/CE-MR unpublished Report RA-170.
Wilmes, R. Orientating Studies on Stability to Light. Bayer AG, PF-A/
1982 CE-PIQ-ENA.
Ziegler, W., Engelhardt, G. Wallnofer, P.R., Oehlmann, L. Wagner, K.
1980 Degradation of Demeton-S-Methyl Sulphoxide (Metasystox R) by
Soil Micro-organisms. J. Agric. Food Chem. 28, 1102 - 1106.
See Also:
Toxicological Abbreviations
Demeton-S-methyl and related compounds (WHO Pesticide Residues Series 3)
Demeton-S-Methyl and Related Compounds (Pesticide residues in food: 1989 evaluations Part II Toxicology)