Estimation of uncertainty of sampling for analysis of pesticide residues

Abstract

A computer model was used to take random samples from primary sample populations obtained from field trials to simulate the uncertainty of sampling for residue analysis of plant commodities and soil. The results indicate about 40%, 30% and 20% relative uncertainty when random samples of size 5, 10 and 25 are taken respectively, from a single lot. Therefore the sample size should be the same for establishing and enforcing legal limits.