Nanostructured Sensors for Pesticide Detection in Tea

Tea is a widely consumed beverage around the world. After China, India is the world’s second-largest producer of tea. Assam in north east India contributes around 52% of total output of India’s tea production. Pesticides are frequently used in tea gardens to protect tea plants from different insects and mites and to increase yield. Quinalphos, Fenazaquin, Thiamethoxam, and Emamectin Benzoate are some insecticides often used in Assam tea gardens. To maintain the safety of human life, the tea estates need to follow the maximum pesticide levels given by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). Pesticide levels that exceed the permitted range can cause different health issues. Detecting pesticide residue on tea leaves before processing can help tea companies reduce losses. There are many methods for detecting pesticides in processed tea. However, the application of nanotechnology-based sensors offers a possibility for pre-processing detection. The goal of this review is to provide insight into nanomaterial-based sensors and techniques for pesticide determination from tea leaves.