Plant metabolism support for MRL determination
Plant metabolism support for MRL (Maximum Residue Levels) determination is a factor in establishing the highest amount of pesticide residue expected in food when pesticides are applied correctly. Typically, a labeled pesticide is applied to crop plants and various samples of the plant are analyzed for total radioactive residue (TRR) (via combustion and total 14C analysis) and metabolite identification. Plant studies leverage information such as translocation of residues from one part of the plant to another, or proportion of residues which can be removed by surface wash. The data can contribute to the OECD MRL calculator.