The global pesticide detection market is projected to grow steadily, with its valuation expected to increase from approximately USD 1.50 billion in 2025 to about USD 2.43 billion by 2035. This growth reflects a CAGR of 4.9% over the forecast period. The increasing emphasis on food safety and environmental health is a major driver supporting market expansion. Stringent regulatory frameworks aimed at minimizing harmful pesticide residues in agricultural products are compelling governments and industries to adopt advanced detection technologies.
Pesticide detection plays a crucial role in safeguarding consumer health and ensuring compliance with safety standards. Rapid and accurate detection methods enable monitoring of pesticide levels in food, water, and soil, helping to prevent the distribution of contaminated products. This has led to growing adoption of sophisticated analytical techniques such as chromatography, spectroscopy, and biosensors within laboratories and on-site testing environments.
Market growth is further stimulated by the rising demand for organic and residue-free food products. Consumers are becoming more health-conscious and environmentally aware, driving manufacturers and regulatory bodies to enforce stricter pesticide control measures. Consequently, pesticide detection systems are increasingly integrated into quality control processes across the agricultural supply chain, from farm to table.
The market comprises various technologies including gas chromatography, liquid chromatography, mass spectrometry, and immunoassays. Liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry holds significant market share due to its high sensitivity and accuracy in detecting diverse pesticide compounds. Portable and real-time detection devices are also gaining traction, offering quick results and enabling on-site monitoring, which enhances operational efficiency.
In March 2025, PerkinElmer launched the QSight® 500 LC/MS/MS System at Pittcon 2025, designed to enhance the detection of pesticides and other contaminants in complex matrices. This system offers high sensitivity and cost efficiency, enabling laboratories to perform reliable analyses of challenging samples such as sludge and grease. The QSight® 500 is built to handle the most demanding sample matrices with unparalleled reliability and cost efficiency.
Sustainability considerations are influencing market developments, with manufacturers focusing on eco-friendly testing protocols and reducing hazardous chemical use in detection processes. Advances in automation and miniaturization of detection devices also contribute to improved throughput and reduced operational costs.
Challenges such as the high cost of advanced equipment and the need for skilled personnel may constrain market growth in some regions. Nonetheless, continuous innovation, expanding regulatory compliance, and increasing consumer demand for food safety are expected to drive sustained market expansion.
| Attributes | Description |
|---|---|
| Estimated Global Industry Size (2025E) | USD 1.50 billion |
| Projected Global Industry Value (2035F) | USD 2.43 billion |
| Value-based CAGR (2025 to 2035) | 4.9% |
The multi-residue methods (MRMs) segment is projected to capture approximately 54% market share in 2025, leading the pesticide detection market due to its efficiency in simultaneous detection of multiple pesticide residues in a single test. MRMs reduce testing time and costs while improving accuracy, a crucial advantage amid tightening global food safety regulations.
Integration of advanced technologies such as high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and mass spectrometry (MS) has significantly enhanced MRM sensitivity, enabling detection of trace pesticide levels with high specificity. This capability is vital as regulatory agencies and consumers demand reliable, rapid testing to ensure food safety and environmental protection.
The adaptability of MRMs to analyze a broad spectrum of sample types-from fresh produce to processed foods-further supports its expanding application. Growing awareness of pesticide health hazards and the demand for fast, dependable analytical methods underpin the rising acceptance of MRMs globally. As a fundamental tool in safeguarding public health and complying with evolving regulations, the MRM segment is poised for sustained growth throughout the forecast period.
Traditional technologies such as liquid chromatography (LC) and gas chromatography (GC) continue to hold a commanding 54% market share in 2025, serving as the backbone of pesticide residue analysis worldwide. These well-established methods have proven their efficiency, sensitivity, and specificity over decades, making them the preferred choice for regulatory compliance testing.
GC, often paired with mass spectrometry (GC-MS), excels at detecting volatile and semi-volatile compounds, while HPLC is best suited for non-volatile pesticide residues. Innovations like ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) and tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) have further enhanced speed and precision, keeping traditional techniques competitive.
Despite the emergence of new technologies such as biosensors and MRMs, conventional methods remain indispensable due to their robust performance, widespread availability, and extensive methodological validation. Their continued use ensures rigorous regulatory adherence and upholds food safety standards, sustaining their dominant market position over the forecast horizon.
Increasing adoption of advanced detection technologies like HPLC and GC-MS
Market growth for pesticide detection owing to high accuracy, sensitivity, and efficiency owing to increased use of sophisticated technologies such as High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) could be credited.
Such new-age methods have been providing invaluable inputs toward environmental safety and food security through facilitating accurate measurement and quantification of pesticide residues. Conventional detection techniques tend to lack the reliability and accuracy, while HPLC and GC-MS provide a more robust and detailed pesticide analysis.
High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) is a powerful analytical method for separating, identifying, and measuring the chemical constituents of a mixture. HPLC does this by forcing a liquid sample through a column filled with a solid adsorbent material, which reacts to the sample constituents according to their chemical properties.
HPLC is especially useful in the analysis of many types of pesticide residues, both thermally labile and non-volatile ones. The high resolution and flexibility of the method render it a significant analytical tool for precise pesticide residue analysis, satisfying strict regulatory standards of governments and governing bodies across the globe.
Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), however, takes advantage of both the ability of gas chromatography and that of mass spectrometry to study volatile and semi-volatile substances. The GC-MS sample is vaporized and transported through the chromatographic column by an inert gas, where it is separated into discrete constituents.
The constituents are then ionized and quantitated by the mass spectrometer to give detailed information regarding their molecular structure and composition. GC-MS is highly sensitive and specific and is most ideally suited for trace level determination of pesticide residues of high accuracy.
Rising consumer awareness about food safety and pesticide residue
The increasing awareness of consumers on food safety and pesticide residues has dealt a staggering blow to the world food industry. As consumers increasingly become enlightened about the health hazards presented by pesticide residues in food, demands for transparency and strict safety procedures are becoming more frequent.
Increased access to information, media exposure, and public awareness campaigns by health authorities and lobby groups are some of the reasons behind increasing awareness. Customers are more careful about the quality and safety of food they eat, and this has driven the change in buying behavior and selection.
Among the most important issues surrounding pesticide residues is their possible effect on human health. Exposure to some pesticides over long periods has been discovered to cause different diseases, such as cancer, endocrine disorders, and neurodegenerative diseases. This has led to consumers buying foods that are organic certified or branded as free from poisonous chemicals.
Clean eating and healthy diets have also driven this popularity trend, as consumers seek out products that are said to be safe and have fewer pesticides. Therefore, manufacturers and retailers are also increasingly looking towards practices that focus on pesticide-free cultivation and aggressive residue testing.
Governments and regulatory agencies worldwide have responded to this increased consumer consciousness with stricter regulations and standards for pesticide residue analysis. The aim of these initiatives is to align food products with safety standards and free of toxic pesticide residues.
High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) are among the newer detection technologies being used to improve pesticide residue analysis for accuracy and speed. Apart from that, certification programs and eco-labels have also become vital in establishing consumer trust and standards conformity.
Integration of microbial detection methods with pesticide analysis
The development of instant mashed potato foods is a key trend in the food industry, driven by the increasing demand for convenience and quick meal options. Instant mashed potatoes provide a convenient option to traditional mashed potatoes, allowing consumers to have a comfort food staple in minutes.
This convenience is especially attractive to busy people and families who desire to have instant-ready side dishes without sacrificing quality and flavor. The increasing demand for instant mashed potatoes is also driven by the urbanization rate and the fast-paced lives of contemporary consumers.
The manufacturers are meeting this need by producing a variety of instant mashed potato styles in varying tastes and formats. From simple butter and herb through to more exotic flavorings such as garlic parmesan and truffle, shoppers have plenty of options to suit most palates.
Moreover, food processing technology has enhanced the taste and texture of instant mashed potatoes so that they can be compared with homemade mashed potatoes. These technologies have served to erase the stigma that instant mashed potatoes are of poor quality compared to regular mashed potatoes.
The growth in instant mashed potato products is not only experienced in retail markets but also in the foodservice sector. Instant mashed potatoes are becoming more and more popular among restaurants, cafes, and catering agencies because of convenience in preparation and consistency of quality. Food service providers can easily serve a lot of mashed potatoes in a short time without the complexity of peeling, boiling, and mashing raw potatoes.
Growth in the use of immunoassays for rapid and accurate pesticide detection
The combination of microbial detection with pesticide analysis gives a new dimension to environmental monitoring and food quality. Microbial biosensors based on microorganisms as the sensing element have several advantages like rapid analysis, high sensitivity, and on-site sampling capability.
They work by immobilizing microbial cells on various matrices and linking them with transducers that convert biological response into measurable signals. The microorganisms respond by producing a signal whose magnitude is proportional to the concentration of the pesticide when pesticides are present in a sample. Real-time detection allows for the determination of pesticide contamination right away.
Microbial biosensors have the benefit that they are capable of testing the toxicological activity of pesticides such as toxicity, cytotoxicity, genotoxicity, and bioavailability. This wide range of analysis is necessary in order to identify potential risks associated with pesticide residues. Microbial biosensors are easy to handle, portable, and need minimal sample preparation and thus are applicable for use in the field.
During the period 2020 to 2025, the sales grew at a CAGR of 4.7% and it is predicted to continue to grow at a CAGR of 4.9% during the forecast period of 2025 to 2035.
The pesticide detection market has evolved tremendously across the decades with the growing demand for food safety and environmental protection. The market was originally based on traditional methods such as gas chromatography (GC) and liquid chromatography (LC), which, though accurate, were labor-intensive and required sophisticated laboratory setups.
The 1990s and early 2000s also witnessed a significant shift with the introduction of highly sophisticated detection technology such as high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and mass spectrometry (MS). These technologies were more sensitive and accurate in identifying trace residues of pesticides in complex samples.
The global trade in foodstuffs and food regimes that brought in stringent controls in several governments encouraged entry into these technologies. The advanced economies of Europe and North America were leading in this regard owing to their strong regulatory frameworks and technological base. Of late, there has been an emphasis on fast detection technology and biosensors, with a heightened interest in faster, in-place, and real-time analysis.
In the next few years, the pest control detection market will experience robust growth on the back of ongoing technology developments and increasing regulation. One of the emerging trends is a shift towards more sustainable and environmentally friendly detection techniques. Green analytical chemistry is increasingly in the spotlight, and techniques such as supercritical fluid extraction and solid-phase microextraction are gaining popularity methodologies.
Microbial detection technology convergence is also seen to increase the efficiency and accuracy of pesticide analysis, striking a balance between the dual menace of chemical and microbial contamination. Additionally, the industry is forecast to see more non-destructive testing methods like infrared and Raman spectroscopy, with the ability for rapid on-site analysis without jeopardizing sample integrity.
The increased demand for food safety, along with the enhancement of detection technologies, ensures that the market for detecting pesticides will continue to grow and be an integral part in bringing about a safer food supply and cleaner world in the future.
Tier1:The Tier 1 segment of the pesticide detection market is controlled by giants like Agilent Technologies, Thermo Fisher Scientific, PerkinElmer Inc., and Waters Corporation. These companies have made a name for themselves as industry leaders due to their vast product lines, premium technologies, and broad geographical presence.
They spend a lot on research and development to innovate and improve their detection process to ensure high accuracy and efficiency. Their strong distribution networks and strategic alliances further reinforce their market position, enabling them to access a vast number of consumers in numerous locations.
Tier 2:Tier 2 players in the pesticide detection industry are Renka Bio, Sciex, Merck, Shimadzu Corporation, and ALS Limited. Tier 2 players have a solid market presence and provide diversified detection solutions. They may lack the same level of resources available in Tier 1 players, but they have specialized knowledge and innovative methods.
They concentrate on niche areas and frequently work with research institutions and research organizations to develop cutting-edge technology. Their capacity to evolve with the needs of the changing market and offer tailored solutions puts them in the lead of industries.
Tier 3:Tier 3 firms in the market for pesticide detection are smaller, but significant players like SpensaKarlabs, AsureQuality Ltd., SCS Global Services, Microbac Laboratories Inc., Symbio Laboratories, Eurofins Scientific, Intertek Group plc, SGS SA, and Fera Science Limited. The firms are locally or regionally established and have specialized services that cater to specific customer requirements.
They lack the abundant resources and international reach of Tier 1 and Tier 2 players but are integral parts of the market with their accurate, high-quality detection offerings. They make sure to have client satisfaction and effective cost-saving results, and therefore they are assets to the pesticide detection industry.
The following table shows the estimated growth rates of the significant three geographies sales.
| Country | CAGR, 2025 to 2035 |
|---|---|
| USA | 4.0% |
| Germany | 3.2% |
| India | 6.3% |
High demand for organic products in the USA is due to many reasons. Americans have become more health-conscious over time and are aware of the possible benefits of eating organic food products that do not contain artificial pesticides, herbicides, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
This has been fueled by widespread media coverage, activism by environmental and health groups, and increasing concern about the long-term effects of traditional farming methods on human health and the environment. The increase in lifestyle diseases like obesity, diabetes, and cancer has also led many consumers to choose healthier food, thereby increasing demand for organic foods.
The fact that well-delineated labeling and certification rules for organic produce have been a major contributing factor to building consumers' confidence and trust cannot be overstated. Consequently, the USA market for organic foods has witnessed huge expansion, as customers are prepared to pay more for products that they believe are better for them and the environment. This is expected to continue as more people want to place emphasis on their sustainability and health when making a purchase.
The widespread consumption of authentic potato meals such as Kartoffelpüree in Germany can be contributed to the nation's strong eating culture and food affinities. Kartoffelpüree, or mashed potatoes, is one of German favorite dishes, often served with conventional food items such as sausages, schnitzel, and roasted meat. Kartoffelpüree's rich and comforting texture is responsible for its widespread popularity for daily consumption and celebrations.
In addition, potatoes have long been a fundamental part of the German diet, with an affordable and versatile ingredient that can be cooked in so many ways. The emphasis on home preparation, filling meals also drives the demand for traditional potato dishes, as they are comforting and evocative. In addition, the sustainability of popularity of indigenous and local foods in Germany means that Kartoffelpüree is still a favorite among consumers, hence the high consumption of potatoes in Germany.
In India, awareness regarding food safety and health effects of the use of pesticides has grown a great deal. The reason is largely increased concern for the health hazards posed by pesticide residues in food, like cancer, neurological disorders, and developmental disorders.
Media campaigns for awareness and sensitization programs organized by government and non-government agencies have contributed a great deal in creating awareness about these hazards among the masses. The greater accessibility of information via the digital media, social media, and the news has added to the awareness in this regard.
There have also been a sequence of incidents of contamination of foods by pesticides, which has created public outrage and public pressure for more stringent regulation and better agricultural practices. Consequently, consumers are becoming increasingly sensitive to what they eat and demand organic and pesticide-free food.
This change in consumerism has also led to farmers changing their approach and adopting more sustainable and organic farming to fulfill the growing demand. Overall, the growing awareness regarding food safety and the health effects of pesticides is propelling the Indian agriculture sector and food supply chain towards a positive change.
The market for pesticide detection is competitive and is dominated by leaders in the industry like Renka Bio, Sciex, Merck, and Agilent Technologies. Renka Bio stands apart from the others with its new biosensor technology that provides rapid and precise detection of pesticide residues.
Sciex is a highly reputed analytical science leader that is specialized in new mass spectrometry technologies designed to optimize pesticide analysis sensitivity and selectivity. Merck, with its wide range of chemical and biological detection techniques, is still leading the market with its research and development processes.
Agilent Technologies, being a prominent player in the market, provides various chromatography and mass spectrometry solutions with high precision and reliability in detecting pesticides. These firms are constantly investing in technological innovation and strategic alliances in order to uphold their competitive position and meet the increasing demand for effective and reliable pesticide detection means worldwide.
| Report Attributes | Details |
|---|---|
| Estimated Global Industry Size (2025) | USD 1.50 billion |
| Projected Global Industry Value (2035) | USD 2.43 billion |
| CAGR (2025 to 2035) | 4.9% |
| Base Year for Estimation | 2024 |
| Historical Period | 2020 to 2024 |
| Projections Period | 2025 to 2035 |
| Quantitative Units | USD billion for value and million units for volume |
| Technologies Analyzed (Segment 1) | High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), Immunoassay, Biosensors, Multi-Residue Methods (MRMs) |
| Methods Covered (Segment 2) | Multi-residue Types (MRMs), Selective Residue Methods (SRMs), Single Residue Detection |
| Distribution Channels Analyzed (Segment 3) | Traditional Technologies, Rapid Detection Technologies, Chromatographic Techniques, Spectroscopic Techniques, Electrochemical Sensors, Bioassays, ELISA |
| Regions Covered | North America; Latin America; Western Europe; Eastern Europe; South Asia & Pacific; East Asia; Middle East & Africa |
| Countries Covered | United States, Germany, India, China, France, United Kingdom, Japan, South Korea, Canada |
| Key Players Influencing the Market | Agilent Technologies, Thermo Fisher Scientific, PerkinElmer, Merck, Sciex, Renka Bio, Shimadzu Corporation, Waters Corporation, Eurofins Scientific, SGS, ALS Limited |
| Additional Attributes | Dollar sales by technology (HPLC vs GC-MS), regulatory impacts, adoption by region, emerging biosensor technologies, microbial detection integration, rapid on-site analysis trends |
| Customization and Pricing | Customization and Pricing Available on Request |
As per Method, the industry has been categorized into Multi-residue Types (MRMs), Selective or Single Residue (SRMs), Detect Multiple Pesticide Residues
As per Distribution Channel the industry has been categorized into Traditional Technologies, Rapid Detection Technologies, Gas Chromatography (GC), Liquid Chromatography (LC), High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), Mass Spectrometer (MS), Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC), High-Performance Thin Layer Chromatography (HPTLC), Electro Analytical Technique, Electrochemical Sensors Chemicals & Biosensors, Spectroscopic Techniques, Flow Injection Analysis, Spectrophotometry,Capillary Electrophoresis, Bioassay for Pesticide Detection, ELISA Enzyme linked Immune Absorbent Assay
The market spans North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, South Asia & Pacific, East Asia, Central Asia, Balkan and Baltic Countries, Russia and Belarus, and The Middle East & Africa.
The market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.9% throughout the forecast period.
By 2035, the market value is projected to reach USD 2.43 billion.
Asia Pacific is expected to dominate global consumption in the biotechnology reagents market.
Leading manufacturers include Renka Bio, Sciex, Merk, and Agilent Technologies.
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Pesticide Detection Market
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