Polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs) and polychlorinated dibenzo furans (PCDFs), collectively known as dioxins are major persistent organic pollutants (POPs) that are found widely all over the world. Centres for Disease Control has classified this chemical compound as toxic, stable, do not break down easily and ubiquitously presence in the environmental and food matrices. Figure 1 shows the chemical structures of dioxin and furan. Dioxins are […]

In Malaysia, crude palm oil (CPO) and crude palm kernel oil (CPKO) are the main feedstock for the production of a wide variety of palm-based derivatives for both food and non-food applications including oleochemicals. These derivatives are widely used in the production of candles, cosmetics, soap, lubricants, grease, agrochemicals, etc. There are a number of fatty acids produced from palm kernel oil. One of […]

In Malaysia, glyphosate is a commonly used herbicide in oil palm plantation to control broad-leaved weeds and grasses. However, herbicides usage may have adverse effects on human if presence in food products. Therefore, a reliable method has to be developed to detect and quantify glyphosate residue in crude palm oil, to safeguard public health. Glyphosate (Figure 1) is the common name for [N-(phosphonomethyl)glycine] C3 H8 NO5 P. Roundup, […]

Insecticides are used in the oil palm plantation to control insect pests. Insecticides such as cypermethrin are commonly used to treat bagworms, nettle caterpillars and rhinoceros beetles. The use of pesticides in oil palm plantations has resulted in a growing concern for the presence and danger of the residues in the environment. A method has been developed to monitor leaching and the persistence […]

Volatile organic compounds (VOC) in consumer products are potential health and environmental hazards. Furthermore, an abundance of VOC were released from home and personal care products, building materials and transportation including car seat foams. Therefore, VOC need to be determined to ensure the products are safe for public use. Main Research: Mohd Azmil Mohd Nor