Rate of decrease of the residual concentration of diazinon in cabbage

Abstract

Analysis of diazinon residues in cabbages up to 14 days after the final spray application, showed an initial period of rapid decay followed by a period of slower decay, which approximates to first order kinetics. The Australian maximum residue level of 0.7 mg kg-1 diazinon for the whole cabbage was reached in 2-3 days in summer and 7-8 days in winter. The recommended Australia 14-day withholding period, combined with marketing of hearts alone, conformed to Japanese marketing requirements of 0.1 mg kg-1.