A study on the prevalence of heavy metals, pesticides, and microbial contaminants and antibiotics resistance pathogens in raw salad vegetables sold in Dhaka, Bangladesh.

The presence of undesirable heavy metals, pesticide residues, and microbial contaminants in fresh produces is a worldwide public health concern. This study was undertaken to evaluate the residual pesticides (Diazinon, Malathion, Cypermethrin, Dimethoate, Quinalphos, and Chloropyrofos), heavy metal contamination (Pb, Cd, and Cr), and microbiological quality and safety of 4 common raw salad vegetables (RSVs) samples from different local markets in Dhaka. Results showed the presence of heavy metals residues were within the acceptable limits of local and international standards.