Determination of heavy metal content of processed fruit products from Tehran's market using ICP- OES: A risk assessment study

Sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate in some beverages in Sulaymaniyah, Kurdistan region of Iraq: a health risk assessment study by Monte Carlo simulation

The objective of the present research was to examine the contents of sodium benzoate (SB) and potassium sorbate (PS) in different beverage samples, including carbonated soft drinks, energy drinks, and fruit juices in Sulaymaniyah, Kurdistan region of Iraq, using high-performance liquid chromatography with a UV detector (HPLC-UV). Furthermore, the health risks associated with these preservatives in beverages were evaluated for adults and children using Monte Carlo simulations. The mean levels of SB in carbonated soft drinks, energy drinks, and fruit juices were 103.82 ± 25.02, 70.64 ± 14.29, and 77.86 ± 33.69 mg/L, respectively. The average concentration of PS in carbonated soft drinks, energy drinks, and fruit juices was Collapse

Key Words

• Sodium benzoate
• energy drinks
• fruit juices
• health risk assessment
• potassium sorbate
• soft drinks

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Affiliation(s)

Shilan Muhammad Abdulla Food Science and Quality Control Department, College of Agricultural Engineering Science, University of Sulaimani, Sulaimani, Iraq
Ramin Aslani Division of Food Safety and Hygiene, Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
Mohammad Hasan Zarghi Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
Saeid Yousefi Food and Drug Organization, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
Nabi Shariatifar Division of Food Safety and Hygiene, Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Nutrition Science, Food Science and Technology, National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
Ebrahim Molaee-Aghaee Division of Food Safety and Hygiene, Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Nutrition Science, Food Science and Technology, National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
Ayub Ebadi Fathabad Division of Food Safety and Hygiene, Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.

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Ecotoxicological investigation of arsenic contamination within the water-soil-fruit-human continuum

Arsenic (As) contamination of water, soil, and plants has become a global critical concern owing to its ecological consequences and human health risks. This study investigated As contamination in soil-irrigation water-fruit plant systems from previously unexplored fruit orchards in Vehari District, Pakistan. A total of 193 samples, comprising irrigation water, soil, and plants, were collected from three tehsils of district Vehari: Mailsi, Vehari, and Burewala. Results showed As concentrations ranging from 0.2 to 69.9 µg/L (mean: 16.2 µg/L) in water, 0.1-83.6 µg/L (mean: 44.6 µg/L) in soil, and 0-50.6 µg/L (mean: 9.18 µg/L) in plants. Notably, the world of water, 91.6% of soil, 28.3% of plant leaves, and 15.28% of fruit samples exceeded the permissible limit of 10 µg/L set by the World Health Organization (WHO). Moreover, 11.6% of irrigation water, 45% of soil, and 1.67% of plant leaf samples surpassed the hazardous threshold of 50 µg/L. To evaluate health risks, target hazard quotients, estimated daily intake, and cancer risk values for As were calculated as 1.54E-03, 4.63E-04, and 6.94E-07, respectively. Principal component analysis (PCA) revealed a strong correlation among water quality parameters including As carbonate (CO₃2-), bicarbonate (HCO₃-), and pH, which significantly influenced As uptake by plants. A triangular heatmap indicated associations of water and soil As with pH, CO₃2- (r2: 0.08, 0.17, 0.46), and plant As (r2: - 0.04), supporting the concept of reduced As absorption in high-carbonate soils. This study underscores widespread As contamination in groundwater, soil, and vegetation in Vehari District, Pakistan. The findings highlight the urgent need to improve irrigation water quality or implement systematic evaluations to mitigate risks to human health.

Applying Monte Carlo simulation to assess health risks of potentially toxic elements in fruits and nuts grown in the capital of Iran

This study investigated harmful elements (PHEs) in three fruits (figs, oranges, persimmons) and two nuts (walnuts, hazelnuts) grown in Tehran, Iran, using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) to evaluate health risks. The results showed that chromium (Cr) exceeded the 0.1 mg/kg standard in walnuts (mean = 6.15 mg/kg) and figs (mean = 5.23 mg/kg). Copper (Cu) surpassed 2 mg/kg in all produce except figs. Arsenic (As) exceeded the standard in walnuts, persimmons, and oranges, while cadmium (Cd) surpassed the limit only in persimmons. Iron (Fe) levels were significantly high, peaking in persimmons (mean = 71.79 mg/kg). Lead (Pb), manganese (Mn), and mercury (Hg) exceeded safety limits in all samples, while barium (Ba) was the most abundant metal, especially in hazelnuts and oranges. The correlation and clustering analysis indicated that the sources of PHEs may be influenced by a combination of agricultural practices, atmospheric transport, traffic emissions, historical pollution, and natural background levels. Monte Carlo simulation results show Pb poses the highest non-carcinogenic risk for children (TTHQ50th: 12.56) and adults (TTHQ50th: 5.62). Ni presents the highest carcinogenic risk (TCR50th: 1.58E-03 for children, 3.50E-03 for adults. Hence, urgent monitoring of PHEs in local produce is essential.

Health Risk Assessment of Toxic Metal(loids) Consumed Through Plant-Based Anti-diabetic Therapeutics Collected in the Northern Divisional City of Rajshahi, Bangladesh

The present study investigates human health risks upon consumption of herbal medicines in terms of ten toxic metalloids in 20 plant-based anti-diabetic therapeutics. The analysis of metalloids was determined by an atomic absorption spectrometer after microwave-assisted digestion. The computation of hazard quotients (HQ) and hazard indexes (HI) of metalloids leads to the assessment of non-carcinogenic health risks. Carcinogenic risk was assessed based on cancer slope factor (CSF) and chronic daily intake (CDI) values. Comparison with WHO regulatory cut-off points for each metalloid: seven samples for Mn, 12 samples for Hg, three samples for Cu, eight samples for Ni, four samples for Cd, two samples for Pb, one sample for Cr, and eight samples for Zn are unsafe to consume. Non-carcinogenic human health risk is predicted for Mn in seven samples, Fe in one sample, Hg in ten samples, Cu in three samples, Ni in one sample, and Pb in two samples. HI values greater than 1 predict non-carcinogenic health risk in thirteen samples. Incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) remains for As (inorganic) in 12 samples, Cr (+ 6) in one sample, and Pb in no samples. To guarantee consumer safety, the implementation of strict monitoring is suggested.

Human health risk assessment of dietary metal intake through commonly consumed vegetables in Gaya District, Bihar, India

This study assessed the concentration of Al, As, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, Se, and Zn in commonly grown vegetables collected from the Gaya district of Bihar. Metals were determined using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry following sample preparation and digestion. As, Cr, Ni, Pb and Zn exceeded the maximum allowable concentration of Food and Agricultural Organization in some of the vegetable samples. Non-carcinogenic human health risk assessment due to ingestion of vegetables was estimated using Hazard Quotient (HQ) and Hazard Index (HI) which revealed that non-carcinogenic risks were primarily due to Co, followed by Cr and Fe. The risk was higher in the leafy and underground vegetables as compared to the fruit vegetables. Of all the locations, the highest risk was estimated for Fatehpur, followed by Manpur and Bodhgaya, which was attributed to the anthropogenic activities of the locations. The HI exceeded unity in 64.3% of the vegetable samples, indicating potential health risks to the consumers and suggesting that vegetables from some locations in the Gaya district might have food safety issues. Periodic soil testing, irrigation water management, and avoidance of leafy vegetables from polluted sites are suggested to lower the health risks associated with vegetable consumption.

Toxic heavy metals of agricultural products in developing countries and its human health risk assessment: A study from Iran

Food toxicity through heavy metals, particularly from cereal consumption, poses significant threats to human health. This study studied various toxic heavy metals (Pb, As, Cr, Cd, Co, Hg, and Ag) in cereal products and their human health risk assessment in Ilam province, Iran. This study analyzed 30 samples of the most commonly cultivated cereals (wheat, rice, corn, pea, and lentil) in Ilam province. ICP-MS was used to measure the concentrations of selected toxic heavy metals. According to the obtained results, only the rice samples had concentrations of As and Pb that exceeded Iran's national standards. Monte Carlo simulation showed that the 95th percentile (P95th) values of hazard quotient (HQ) for As in wheat and rice, Hg in wheat, and Pb in rice were above 1. Moreover, P95th values of incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) for As in wheat and rice were above 10-4 The findings showed that the consumption of wheat and rice in the Ilam province was a potential source of exposure to As, Pb, and Hg. This study recommends the necessity of monitoring heavy metals in cereal products to protect human health.

Trace Element Speciation and Nutrient Distribution in Boerhavia elegans: Evaluation and Toxic Metal Concentration Across Plant Tissues

This study investigated the elemental composition of Boerhavia elegans, addressing the gap in comprehensive trace element profiling of this medicinal plant. The research aimed to determine the distribution of macronutrients, micronutrients, and beneficial and potentially toxic elements across different plant parts (seeds, leaves, stems, and roots). Using ICP-OES analysis, two digestion methods were employed to capture both complex and labile elements. The study revealed distinct elemental distribution patterns, with iron and nickel concentrating in stems, manganese and zinc in leaves, and copper in roots. Magnesium emerged as the most abundant macronutrient, particularly in leaves. Importantly, all detected toxic elements (arsenic, chromium, lead, and cadmium) were below WHO safety limits. These findings provide crucial insights into the nutritional and safety profile of B. elegans, potentially informing its use in traditional medicine and highlighting its potential as a source of essential elements.

Assessment of total mercury content in fish muscle tissue from the middle basin of the Pastaza River, Ecuador

One of the most toxic metals is mercury, which exhibits high toxicity during short exposure periods. This study aimed to determine the concentration of total mercury (THg) in fish muscle tissue from various species captured from two locations in the middle basin of the Pastaza River in Ecuador, which the locals use in their weekly diet. The individuals captured belong to the following families: Loricariidae, Cetopsidae, Heptapteridae, Cichlidae, Parodontidae, Characidae, Prochilodontidae, Curimatida, Siluriformes, Cichliformes, Characiformes, Erythrinidae and Curimatidae. Carnivorous species Charax sp. and Cetopsis plumbea, had THg concentrations were 0.241± 0.018 and 0.116 ± 0.045 mg kg-1, respectively. Herbivorous species Hypostomus sp. had a lower of THg. Carnivorous species Hoplias malabaricus exhibited THg concentration of 0.160±0.033 and 0.020±0.007 mg kg-1 for the omnivorous species Creagrutus sp. Carnivorous species accumulated higher levels of Hg compared to non-carnivorous species. Concentration of total mercury in the collected fish did not exceed the maximum permissible limits set by legislative standards (Ecuadorian Institute of Standardization (INEN as per the acronym in Spanish), FAO/WHO and European Commission); and the objective hazard quotient was less than 1, indicating that the consumption of this fish may pose no risk to human health. Considering the mean concentrations of methylmercury, for all the fish species analysed, the results for daily consumption rate were between 6-199 g and 29-928 g for children and adults, respectively.

Analysis of Elements and Effects of Common Disinfectants in Common Salad Vegetables

In this research, firstly, the effect of some cleaners or disinfectants (including washing with water, ozone (O3, 0.5ppm), benzalkonium chloride (BAC, 120ppm), the combination of two treatments (O3 + BAC)) on the population of two pathogens plant was evaluated, secondly 14 elements (Ca (calcium), magnesium (magnesium), As (arsenic), Al (aluminum), mercury (mercury), Se (selenium), cadmium (cadmium), K (potassium), Iron (Fe), nickel (Ni), zinc (Zn), sodium (Na), manganese (Mn) and lead (Pb)) were evaluated in romaine lettuce and Brassica oleracea, thirdly, the sensory evaluation of the mentioned vegetables with different treatments was investigated during seven days. The results showed the maximum and minimum mean of essential elements were Ca (5334 ± 178 mg/kg in Brassica oleracea) and Se (0.0021 ± 0.0001 mg/kg in Romaine lettuce), respectively. The maximum and minimum mean of toxic elements were Pb (6.26 ± 0.12 µg/kg in Brassica oleracea) and Hg (lower than LOD in Brassica oleracea), respectively. Also, the combined treatment (O3 + BAC) showed the best result, so that the lowest aerobic bacteria population (3.15-3.86 in Brassica oleracea and 3.25-4.17 log CFU/g in Romaine lettuce), yeast and mold (1.58-2.06 in Brassica oleracea and 1.65-2.29 log CFU/g in Romaine lettuce), E. coli (ND-1.23 in Brassica oleracea and ND-1.76 log CFU/g in Romaine lettuce) and S. Typhimurium (ND-1.35 in Brassica oleracea and 1.06-1.73 log CFU/g in Romaine lettuce) on all days was related to this treatment. Also, the sensory evaluation results showed that the combined treatment (O3 + BAC) obtained the best scores compared to other treatments and control. The results showed that water and combined treatment of aqueous O3 and BAC can have a good health effect on Brassica oleracea and Romaine lettuce.

Removal of cadmium ions from synthetic wastewater samples by copper ferrite magnetic nanoparticle-assisted batch-type adsorption-based removal strategy

Industrial activities can release a variety of harmful substances, including organic and inorganic components, into the environment. Inadequate treatment and discharge of these pollutants into aquatic environments might have adverse effects. Cadmium (Cd) is a toxic element found in various environmental sources, both anthropogenic and geogenic, which can contaminate soils and groundwater crucial for providing healthy food and safe drinking water. This study aimed to develop a novel strategy by the help of nano-sized adsorbents to remove cadmium ions from wastewater through batch-type adsorption processes. CuFe2O4 nanoparticles having high magnetic properties were synthesized using a co-precipitation process for the efficient removal of analyte. Characterization of the nanomaterial was performed using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) analysis. Method effective parameters were systematically optimized through univariate experiments to find proper conditions for the improvement of interaction between the adsorbent and cadmium ions. Removal efficiency (%RE) of Cd was assessed by using synthetic wastewater samples, and the accuracy/practicability of the recommended method proved highly efficient within the linear range of flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry (FAAS). In addition, the Langmuir isotherm model was applied to the experimental data, and the effective adsorption of cadmium from synthetic wastewater by the magnetic CuFe2O4 nanoparticles was proved.

The Impact of Landfill Operations on Borehole Water Quality

Water is crucial for life, and although groundwater is considered safe, it can degrade due to inadequate source protection and inefficient resource management. The aim of the study was to assess the impact of landfill operations on water quality from selected landfill sites. Spectrometry analytical techniques were used to assess the physicochemical parameters of the samples. The study found that while Salmonella was absent in most samples, E. coli and total coliforms were present, making the water unsafe for domestic use. Although turbidity, pH, temperature and other parameters were within acceptable GSA/WHO levels, total coliform and E. coli raise concerns about faecal contamination and potential health risks. Cadmium was absent in all samples, but chromium, lead, arsenic and mercury were detected. These heavy metals could pose health hazards to consumers. The samples showed no risk of noncarcinogenic and carcinogenic risk to consumers, but then there is a potential health risk to consumers over time due to bioaccumulation. Regular monitoring and periodic assessments are recommended to ensure water safety. Proper waste management practices in landfill areas can minimize potential impacts on water quality, highlighting the need for continuous monitoring and assessment. The municipal authorities can inform residents of the situation and put in policies to protect human health. The results could help residents know the level of contamination of water from their boreholes and the necessary precautions to take to reduce their health impact. A treatment system can be developed in detail to their peculiar need.

Concentration of Heavy Metals in Traditional and Industrial Fruit Juices from Iran: Probabilistic Risk Assessment Study

Exposure to heavy metals can endanger the health of exposed people in the long term. The consumption of fruit juice is increasing; it is important to estimate the health risk of consumers due to heavy metals. The current study was carried out for the analysis of toxic metals (lead (Pb), arsenic (As), and cadmium (Cd)) and essential elements (copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn)) in 60 samples of traditional and industrial fruit juices (10 samples of different brands of apple, orange, grape, peach, mango, and pineapple) in Hamadan, West Iran, using inductivity coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) method. The validation protocol included precision of the analytical method; recovery, the determination of the limit of detection (LOD), the limit of quantification (LOQ), and linearity were measured. Moreover, risk assessment was detected using target hazard quotient (THQ) and cancer risk (CR) by the Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) model. The ranking of metal concentration in traditional and industrial fruit juices was Zn > Cu > As > Pb > Cd. In all samples, concentrations of heavy metals in industrial fruit juices were higher than traditional fruit juices p <  < 0.001. The level of metals in all samples was lower of the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the Iran Standard (IS) permissible limit set for drinking water. In terms of non-carcinogenic, values of toxic elements for children and adult in traditional and industrial fruit juices were 1.6E-3 and 1.72E-3 and 2.6E-3 and 1.85E-3, respectively. The 95th percentile of CR in adults and children due to both industrial and traditional fruits juices was higher than 1E-6; hence, reducing the concentration of As in fruit juices should be conducted. Consumption of fruit juice can increase carcinogenic risk of consumers. Therefore, it is recommended to consume it with caution.

Heavy Metal and Trace Element Status and Dietary Determinants in Children with Phenylketonuria

Background/Objectives: Heavy metals are a group of metals and metalloids that have a relatively high density. They can cause toxicity even at very low levels. Trace elements are required by all living organisms to maintain their normal growth, metabolism, and development. Oral intake is the main route of exposure to both heavy metals and trace elements. Phenylketonuria (PKU) is the most common amino acid metabolic disorder, and the best known treatment for patients requiring treatment is a phenylalanine (Phe)-restricted diet. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the plasma heavy metal levels, sources of exposure, changes in these levels according to dietary regimen, and trace element levels and their correlations with heavy metals in PKU patients. Methods: The study was conducted between July 2022 and January 2024 on 105 patients aged 2-6 years diagnosed with PKU. Results: The percentage of Pb levels in individuals in the upper quartile increased by 3.47 times (95% CI = 1.07-11.29) in those who consumed canned foods and 7.29 times (95% CI = 1.21-44.03) in those who consumed spring water. The percentage of As levels in the upper tertile increased by a factor of 7.26 (95% CI = 2.09-25.28) in individuals under four years of age and 8.17 times (95% CI = 2.13-31.27) in canned food users. The odds of having blood Cd levels in the upper tertile were 0.09 (95% CI = 0.01-0.96) for those being breastfed for 6-11 months compared to 0-5 months. Zn levels were lower (93.0 vs. 83.6 µg/dL, p = 0.008) in patients on a Phe-restricted diet. Conclusions: The present study did not find a relationship between heavy metal exposure and the dietary treatment status of patients with PKU. Our findings indicate that canned food consumption is a significant contributing factor to heavy metal exposure in PKU patients. Furthermore, our findings revealed a relationship between age, perception of economic level, breastfeeding, kitchen equipment, and water usage and the levels of certain heavy metals.

Determination of trace elements content of fruits from Tehran's market using ICP- OES method: a risk assessment study

For the first time in Iran, in this study, the amount of 19 trace elements in some types of commonly consumed Iranian fruits (in their peel and pulp) was evaluated by ICP-OES (Inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry) method. Based on the outcomes, the highest and lowest average detected elements in all fruits samples were related to (Al) aluminum (1842.18) and (V) vanadium (0.28) ppm, respectively. Mercury (Hg) and antimony (Sb) were not detected (ND) in any samples. Also, the maximum mean of elements in quince, lemon, grapefruit, kiwi, orange south, orange north and tangerine samples was related to(Fe) iron (2048.32 ppm), (Zn)zinc(753.45 ppm), Fe (1056.33 ppm), Al (9794.41 ppm), Zn (717.78 ppm), Fe (1334.87 ppm) and Fe (974.93 ppm), respectively. Furthermore, our outcomes revealed, the highest mean of elements in kiwi peel, kiwi pulp, orange North peel, orange North pulp, orange South peel, orange South pulp, quince peel, quince pulp, grapefruit peel, grapefruit pulp, lemon peel, lemon pulp, tangerine peel and tangerine pulp was related to Al (17967.79 ppm), Al (1621.03 ppm), Fe (1350.01 ppm), Al (1457.66 ppm), Zn (934.71 ppm), Fe (728.06 ppm), Fe (2768.11 ppm), Fe (1328.54 ppm), Zn (1008.54 ppm), Fe (1198.00 ppm), Zn (683.35 ppm), Zn (823.55 ppm), Fe (1182.59 ppm), and Fe (767.27 ppm), respectively. Based on the Monte Carlo simulation results, the THQ (target hazard quotient) and ILCR (Incremental Lifetime Cancer Risk) related to exposure to heavy metals via fruits for adults and children showed that there is no significant non-carcinogenic risk (THQ < 1) and carcinogenic risk (ILCR < 1E-4) for adults and children.

Distribution and health risk of chromium in wheat grains at the national scale in China

Chromium (Cr) pollution may threaten food safety in China. In this study, the concentration, pollution level, distribution, and non-cancer risk of Cr in wheat grains grown in 186 areas across 28 provinces in China were investigated. Results indicated that mean concentration of Cr was 0.28 ± 2.5 mg/kg, dry mass (dm). Of the samples, 7.5 % were found to be polluted with Cr. The mean concentrations were in the following order: Northwest > Northeast > South > East > North > Southwest > Central China. Based on deterministic models, mean hazard quotient (HQ) values for adult males, adult females, and children were 0.11 ± 3.4, 0.11 ± 3.4, and 0.13 ± 3.5, respectively with < 6 % of HQ values ≥ 1. Eleven sites in northern China were identified as hotspots, whereas Gansu Province and Northwestern China were labeled as priority provinces and regions for risk control. The mean HQ values estimated by probabilistic risk assessment were two times greater than those estimated using deterministic models. The risk probabilities for adult males, adult females, and children were 4.81 %, 3.78 %, and 6.55 %, respectively. This study provides valuable information on Cr pollution in wheat grains and its risks at a national scale in China.

Assessment of toxic elements in selected fish species in the marine water at Jamestown, Ghana

Fish is an excellent source of low-fat protein. Fish contains a lot of omega-3 fatty acids, as well as vitamins D and B2 (riboflavin). The daily consumption of contaminated food, especially fish, is among the primary cause of heavy metals pollution to human health. The aim of the research was to determine the concentration of heavy metals in selected species of fish from the Gulf of Guinea at James Town in Ghana. In tandem with the study's objective, samples of different forms of fish, Cassava fish, Flatfish, Redfish, Kingfish, and Silverfish, and sediment were obtained and analyzed for the presence of heavy metals using atomic absorption spectrometer (PerkinElmer®, PinAAcle 900T). The analysis indicated a high concentration of Pb, Cd, and Cr concentrations in fish gills, muscles, and sediment. High lead concentration in Silverfish gills (5.9 mg/kg) and Flatfish gills (2.29 mg/kg) above WHO levels. Cadmium was found in all fish species and sediment except Kingfish. Chromium concentrations were high n Cassava fish (3.10 mg/kg) and Silverfish (4.01 mg/kg) and copper concentrations were absent in the fish species. Arsenic and mercury were also not detected in all fish species and sediment. Manganese concentrations were found in fish and sediment. High cadmium target hazard quotient (0.17-11.60 for adults and 0.24 to 16.24 for children) and cancer risk (0.00-0.04) values in fish samples indicated potential health concerns. The Hazard Index (HI) for the analyzed samples ranged from 0.00 to 12.48 for adults and 0.00 to 17.47 for children. The study suggests that eliminating pollution and other sources of waterbody pollution is crucial to protecting the marine environment and the health of seafood consumers.

Evaluation of the concentration and human health risk of nitrate and potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in melons from a southern region of Iran: Identification of pollution sources

Decentralized agriculture, improper monitoring of cultivation conditions, and leaching of contaminants into lands led to the contamination of crops with various potentially toxic elements (PTEs). However, it is essential to know more about the profile level and associated risk of these contaminants and their origin, especially in high-water content crops. This study aimed to investigate the concentration of PTEs in melons of one of Iran's southern cities and follow that health risk assessment in the target population for the first time. Results of the present study confirmed that although the mean concentration of some metals was lower than the safety standard (Cr: 4.6 ± 2 mg/kg and Pb: 7.4 ± 4 mg/kg), their nutritional value was unfavorable regarding some micronutrients (Cu: 88.8 ± 27 mg/kg and Zn: 480 ± 275 mg/kg). The highest metal concentration in cantaloupe was iron (1706.47 mg/kg, p-value<0.05), and nitrate concentration in all melon types was 2.59-524.54 mg/kg (p-value<0.05). Principal component analysis (PCA) with K-means clustering and the Positive Matrix Factorization (PMF) model have shown that contaminants in melons originated from human activities. So, excessive use of agricultural fertilizers is a possible source of nitrates in melons, which have 93 % of factor loading values. The health risk assessment also showed that melons' carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risk using the deterministic method was lower than the permissible limit (HQ < 1, ILCR 1 in the children group for the 95th percentile. Furthermore, the level of certainty in the carcinogenesis risk for children, women, and men was estimated at 86.48 %, 64.67 %, and 61.30 %, respectively. Also, the consumption rate was determined as the most important parameter in the sensitivity analysis. As a consequence, there is a potential health risk for Iranians after the consumption of melon due to PTEs and nitrate levels that also originated from anthropogenic sources.

A target-triggered ultra-sensitive aptasensor for simultaneous detection of Cd2+ and Hg2+ using MWCNTs-Au NPs modified electrode

A sensitive electrochemical assay for simultaneously detecting cadmium ion (Cd2+) and mercury ion (Hg2+) with the aptamer as recognition unit was established, in which methylene blue (MB) and target-triggered in-situ generated Ag nanoclusters (Ag NCs) were identified as signal reporters. Multi-walled carbon nanotubes and gold nanoparticles composites were prepared with polyethyleneimine to amplify electrical signals of screen-printed electrodes. Due to the particular base sequences, MB labeled Cd2+ aptamer paired with ssDNA through T-Hg-T structure with Hg2+. Notably, the C-rich structure in ssDNA acted as a template for the generation of Ag NCs, which could induce differential pulse voltammetry signals corresponding to Hg2+ concentrations. This electrochemical aptasensor exhibited detection limits of 94.01 pg/mL and 15.74 pg/mL for Cd2+ and Hg2+, respectively. The developed aptasensor allowed for practical application to tea and vegetable samples with satisfactory accuracy. This work possesses potential in developing biosensing technologies for simultaneous determination of multiple heavy metals.

Evaluation of Trace Elements in Coffee and Mixed Coffee Samples Using ICP-OES Method

This research examines the concentration of 10 trace elements including arsenic (As), lead (Pb), chromium (Cr), zinc (Zn), iron (Fe), cobalt (Co), cadmium (Cd), nickel (Ni), manganese (Mn), and aluminum (Al) from among 36 different samples of coffee (3 brands and 2 types of simple and instant) and mixed coffee (3 brands and 4 types of simple, creamy, chocolate and sugar free) collected from market of Iran's and analyzed by using ICP-OES (inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry). The recovery, limit of quantification (LOQ), and limit of detection (LOD) ranged from 93.4 to 103.1%, 0.06 to 7.22, and 0.018 to 2.166 µg/kg, respectively. The findings showed that the highest and lowest average concentrations were 498.72 ± 23.07 μg/kg (Fe) and 3.01 ± 1.30 μg/kg (As) in coffee and mixed coffee samples. Also, in all samples, the maximum concentration of trace elements was related to Fe (1353.61 µg/kg) and the minimum concentration was related to Al, As, Co, Cr, Ni, Pb, and Zn that were not detected (ND). The samples of mixed coffee had highest levels of trace elements compared to coffee samples. In coffee samples, type of instant coffee had highest levels of trace elements compared to simple coffee and mixed coffee samples. The type of creamy mixed coffee had highest levels of trace elements (except Ni and Cr) compared to other type of mixed coffee samples. Finally, trace elements were less than the standard levels of Iran and other countries (in all samples); therefore, it does not threaten Iranian consumers.

Analysis and Risk Assessment of Essential and Toxic Elements in Algerian Canned Tuna Fish

In Algeria, the data and research on the essential and toxic chemical elements in food are limited and insufficient; therefore, the present study focused on evaluating the essential and toxic elements content in different 11 brands with two types (tomato and oil) of canned tuna fish, consumed in Algeria in 2022, by inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometer (ICP-OES), while mercury (Hg) levels were determined by cold vapor atomic absorption spectrophotometry, as well as estimate the probabilistic risk assessment. The elements in canned tuna fish commercialized for human consumption in Algeria were determined by ICP-OES methods, The results showed that the heavy metal concentration in the samples under study ranged from 49.11 to 289.80 mg.kg-1 (Ca), 0.0045 to 0.2598 mg.kg-1 (Cd), 0.128 to 1.21 mg.kg-1 (Cr), 8.55 to 35.94 mg.kg-1 (Fe), 121.27 to 379.17 mg.kg-1 (Mg), 0.0767 to 1.2928 mg.kg-1 (Mn), 2.10 to 3.95 mg.kg-1 (Mo), and 2.86 to 35.90 mg.kg-1 (Zn), whereas Cu, Pb, Cu, Ni, and As were under limit of detection (LOD), while the toxic elements of mercury (Hg) levels were determined by cold vapor atomic absorption spectrophotometry which showed a content ranged from 0.0186 to 0.0996 mg.kg-1. The levels of mineral elements concentration were close to the minimum recommended by Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). Obtained data for this investigation can be suitable for Algerian food purposes.

Assessment of phthalate esters in packaged fruit juices sold in the Turkish market and their implications on human health risk

The objective of this study was to analyze the concentration of PAEs and conduct a risk assessment focusing on their potential non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic effects as endocrine-disrupting chemicals. In this research, a method of quantifying eight PAEs in fruit juice samples was established through the utilization of dispersive solid-phase extraction (dSPE) and Liquid Chromatography coupled with Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). While he method recoveries for the samples ranged from 92.21 % to 96.74 %, the RSDs for the eight analytes in the samples ranged from 4.22 % to 6.64 %. Additionally, LODs ranging from 0.34 to 1.88 ng/mL and LOQs ranging from 1.17 to 6.27 ng/mL were determined. Utilizing this methodology, the assessment of PAE concentrations was carried out in 48 fruit juice samples. The results showed that PAEs were detectable in the fruit juice samples, but all tested compounds remained below the specific migration limits set by the EU (30 mg/kg for BBP, 1.5 mg/kg for DEHP, 0.3 mg/kg for DBP, and 9 mg/kg for DINP and DIDP). Among the analyzed PAEs, DINP (26.94 ± 3.25 ng/mL), DEP (7.07 ± 7.59 ng/mL), and DEHP (3.48 ± 1.02 ng/mL) were found to be the most prevalent plasticizers in the fruit juices. Health risk assessments were conducted by calculating Hazard Quotient (HQ) and Hazard Index (HI) values based on the consumption patterns of different age groups. The findings indicated that the values for DEHP, DINP, DEP, and DBP were all below 1, indicating negligible non-carcinogenic health risks associated with the consumption of fruit juices across all age groups. Moreover, the dietary intake levels of each PAE were found to be below the values established by the EFSA for TDI.

Probabilistic Risk Assessment of Metals, Acrylamide and Ochratoxin A in Instant Coffee from Brazil, Colombia, Mexico and Peru

This study analysed the probabilistic risk to consumers associated with the presence of iAs, Cd, Cr, Hg, Pb, acrylamide (AA) and ochratoxin A (OTA) in instant coffee from Brazil, Colombia, Mexico and Peru. The results found iAs to be the metal with the highest concentrations (3.50 × 10-2 to 6.00 × 10-2 mg/kg), closely followed by Pb (1.70 × 10-2 to 2.70 × 10-2 mg/kg) and Cr (5.00 × 10-3 to 1.00 × 10-2 mg/kg), although these differences were not significant between countries. Cd and Hg were not detected. Focusing on AA, the concentrations ranged from 1.77 × 10-1 mg/kg (Peru) to 4.77 × 10-1 mg/kg (Brazil), while OTA ranged from 1.32 × 10-3 (Peru) to 1.77 × 10-3 mg/kg (Brazil) with significant differences between countries in both cases. As regards risk, the hazard quotient and hazard index were less than 1, meaning that the consumption of instant coffee represents a low level of concern for non-genotoxic effects. The results of the combination of margin of exposure and probability of exceedance indicated that the non-genotoxic effects of Pb, AA and OTA pose no threat. However, the probability values of suffering cancer from iAs and AA (between 1 × 10-6 and 1 × 10-4) indicated a moderate risk and that management measures should be taken.

Association between Mediterranean diet and metal mixtures concentrations in pregnant people from the New Hampshire Birth Cohort Study

Diet is a primary source of nutrients but also toxic metal exposure. In pregnancy, balancing essential metal exposure while reducing non-essential ones is vital for fetal and maternal health. However, the effect of metal mixtures from diets like the Mediterranean, known for health benefits, remains unclear. This study aimed to explore the association between Mediterranean diet adherence and metals exposure, both individually and as mixtures. The study involved 907 pregnant participants from the New Hampshire Birth Cohort Study. We calculated the relative Mediterranean diet score (rMED) through a validated food frequency questionnaire, which includes 8 traditional Mediterranean dietary components. Also, at ~24-28 weeks of gestation, we used ICP-MS to measure speciation of Al, Cd, Co, Cu, Fe, Hg, Mo, Ni, Sb, Se, Sn, Zn, and As in urine, as well as Pb, Hg, As, Ni, and Se in toenails. We used multiple linear regression and Weighted Quantile Sum regression to analyze the association between rMED and metal mixtures. The models were adjusted for age, pre-pregnancy BMI, smoking during pregnancy, and educational level. High adherence to the Mediterranean diet was associated with increased urinary Al (® = 0.26 (95 % confidence interval (CI) = 0.05; 0.46)), Cd (β = 0.12 (95%CI = 0.00; 0.24)), Mo (β = 0.10 (95%CI = 0.00; 0.20)), and AsB (β = 0.88 (95%CI = 0.49; 1.27)) as well as toenail Hg (β = 0.44 (95%CI = 0.22; 0.65)), Ni (β = 0.37 (95%CI = 0.06; 0.67)), and Pb (β = 0.22 (95%CI = 0.03; 0.40)) compared to those with low adherence. The intake of fruits and nuts, fish and seafood, legumes, cereals, meat, and olive oil were found to be related to the metal biomarkers within the rMED. In conclusion, the Mediterranean diet enhances essential metal intake but may also increase exposure to harmful ones.

Non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic health risk assessment of heavy metals in cooked beans and vegetables in Punjab, North India

Beans and vegetables are consumed with cereals in India on daily basis. The aim of the study was to assess carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risk of heavy metals in cooked beans and cooked vegetables consumed by adults (18-59 years) and elderly (≥60 years) subjects from two districts (Ludhiana and Bathinda) of Punjab. A total of 150 households were selected from 30 different locations covering both rural and urban areas. The mean daily consumption of beans and vegetables in Ludhiana was recorded as 35.09 and 215.93 g, respectively. The corresponding figures in Bathinda were observed as 26.85 and 230.54 g. The average amounts of arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury were 1.44 × 10-5, 8.21 × 10-5, 1.30 × 10-3, and 2.61 × 10-7 mg/kg for cooked vegetables in urban households of Ludhiana district, respectively. The corresponding values for rural households were 1.53 × 10-5, 5.58 × 10-5, and 2.98 × 10-4 mg/kg while mercury was not detected. The mean chronic daily intake (CDI) of arsenic from cooked beans was significantly (p ≤ .001) higher in urban adult males of Ludhiana (7.74 × 10-9 mg/kg/day) and Bathinda (5.31 × 10-9 mg/kg/day) compared to their rural counterparts. Similar trend was observed in CDI of heavy metals from vegetables. The mean CDI of cadmium from cooked vegetables in urban adult females of Ludhiana (3.76 × 10-7 mg/kg/day) was significantly (p ≤ .001) higher than their rural counterparts and both urban and rural adult females of Bathinda. The study concluded that the subjects of both districts were found safe from non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risk associated with heavy metals present in cooked beans and vegetables, except for urban subjects and rural adult subjects of Ludhiana district who had cancer risk due to cadmium present in cooked vegetable samples.

The Concentration and Risk Assessment of Potentially Toxic Elements (PTEs) in Farmed and Wild Carps (Cyprinus carpio) in Hamadan Province of Iran

This study focuses on measuring potentially toxic elements (PTEs) including mercury (Hg), lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), arsenic (As), iron (Fe), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn) in farmed and wild carp by inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) and their intake amount and risk assessment. Estimated Daily Intake (EDI), Target Hazard Quotient (THQ) and the total THQ (TTHQ) were calculated for each element. In the present research, the concentration of As in farmed and wild carp samples was below the detection limit of ICP-OES (< 0.005 mg/kg). The mean concentrations of Pb, Cd, Fe, and Cu in farmed carp samples were significantly higher than that in wild carp samples, while Zn level was higher in the wild carp samples (P < 0.05). There is no significant difference between Hg and Mn in both fish (P > 0.05). The Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) results showed that the ranking order of PTEs based on their THQ was Hg > Pb > Zn > Cu > Fe > Cd > Mn. In the worst-case scenario (in the top 95 percentile) for both wild and farmed carp, the THQ of measured metals was less than one except Hg in children. Overall, this study demonstrated that the levels of PTEs in farmed and wild common carp had a potential non-carcinogenic risk for children (TTHQ > 1).

Assessing Health Risks Associated with Heavy Metals in Food: A Bibliometric Analysis

Bibliometric analysis is an effective method used to identify research trends based on historical publications that involves combining different frameworks, tools and methods, leading to the creation of different metrics. This study employed bibliometric analysis to investigate the global health risk assessment of heavy metals in food from 2000 to 2022 using Web of Science and VOSviewer. We explore publication trends, affiliations, countries, journals, citations, keywords and author collaborations. Of the 573 publications on this topic, there has been a notable increase in recent years. The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs (China) and Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences (Iran) are the most prolific affiliations. Environmental Science and Pollution Research is the top journal. Notably, "heavy metals", "risk assessment", "cadmium", "lead", and "trace elements" are frequently used keywords. A study by Miraglia et al. in 2009 received the most citations. Amin Mousavi Khaneghah (Poland) is the most prolific author, with 24 papers. Articles mainly focus on contamination levels in fish, seafood, cereals, dairy, meat, and fruit/vegetables. Some studies highlight potential risks, necessitating stricter food product controls for consumer safety.

Evaluating the effects of geochemical and anthropogenic factors on the concentration and treatability of heavy metals in Awash River and Lake Beseka, Ethiopia: arsenic and molybdenum issues

In the Awash River basin (Ethiopia), massive urbanization and industrialization, driven by rapid development and human settlement, are detrimental to the environment and human health as pollutants such as heavy metals (HMs) find their way into water bodies without proper treatment. The purpose of this study was to assess the HMs content and pollution sources within the basin. In this context, a total of 205 samples were collected from 21 surface water sampling stations. Heavy metal concentrations were measured using the Perkin Elmer NexION 350 ICP-MS with inductively coupled plasma. Findings demonstrate that high levels of HMs, such as Al, Mn, Mo, As, V, Fe, and Ba were exhibited with the value of 1257 μg/L, 626.8 μg/L, 116.7 μg/L, 61.2 μg/L, 100.5 μg/L, 1082.7 μg/L, and 211.7 μg/L, respectively. Among 20 HMs analyzed, 20% of the parameters within the study area were above the WHO limit for drinking water; Al (157 μg/L), V (100.5 μg/L), Fe (1082.7 μg/L), Mn (626.8 μg/L), and Mo (103.8 μg/L) were exhibited at sites along the river system. Likewise, 57% of water samples showed high values of As at many stations down the river systems. In particular, high HM concentrations seen in the upper Awash are primarily controlled by anthropogenic activities such as untreated industrial, agricultural, and domestic discharges, while the high HM concentrations in the middle Awash samples were likely due to the influence from the Lake Beseka that has high HM concentrations due to geological process. In conclusion, securing potable water for the rapidly increasing population in Addis Ababa and in the watersheds of Awash is unsafe to sustain the environment and the human health.

Health risk assessment of lead via the ingestion pathway for preschool children in a typical heavy metal polluted area

The problems of environmental lead (Pb) pollution caused by mining activities have attracted global attention. Preschool children are vulnerable to exposure to Pb from the environment. To investigate the health risk of multiple exposures to Pb via oral ingestion (soil, water, rice, wheat, and vegetables) for preschool children in typical polluted areas, in this study, preschool children in Baiyin city were selected as the potential receptors, Pb concentrations in 28 soil samples and 33 vegetable samples were collected and measured. In addition, the Pb concentrations in local water, rice, and wheat were obtained by searching the literature. The Monte Carlo simulation was used in the uncertainty and sensitivity analysis of the parameters. Results showed that Pb concentrations in spinach, tomato, cushaw, lettuce, broad bean, pea, eggplant, and radish exceeded the standards (GB 2762-2017), and 42.86% of soil samples exceeded screening values (GB 15618-2018). The non-carcinogenic risk was as high as 3.58. Vegetables and wheat were the major contributors in the oral ingestion pathway. Furthermore, the carcinogenic risk of preschool children was 6.02E-06, which was acceptable. Monte Carlo simulations showed that health risk assessment results were most likely to be influenced by Pb concentrations in the media. In conclusion, the food safety of vegetables in soil-polluted areas deserves more attention, and certain measures should be taken to reduce the health risks to preschool children.

The concentration of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in Iranian rice: a dietary health risk assessment study

In the present study, six potentially toxic elements (PTEs), including chromium (Cr), arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), copper (Cu), and nickel (Ni), were determined in 41 domestic rice samples collected from Tehran using ICP-OES (inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry). The mean concentration of Cd, As, Cu, Pb, Cr, and Ni was found as 0.014 ± 0.01, 0.018 ± 0.005, 2.15 ± 1.84, 0.42 ± 0.31, 0.1 ± 0.16, and 0.48 ± 0.36 mg kg-1, respectively. Possible risks due to ingestion of PTEs via rice consumption for children and adults were assessed by Monte Carlo simulation. The 50th percentile of estimated Cr intake for children through domestic rice consumption exceeded the maximum tolerable daily intake. There was only a potential non-carcinogenic risk for single Cr exposure for children. The 95th percentile of the estimated hazard index (HI) for children and adults was 4.34 and 1.05, indicating a potential non-carcinogenic risk related to multiple PTE exposure. The lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) values derived from Cr, Ni, As, and Cd exposure exceeded the threshold value, indicating a carcinogenic risk due to PTEs' exposure. The deterministic assessment demonstrates that the Tehran population may be at risk through domestic rice consumption. This study indicates that risk related to the exposure to multiple PTEs through the consumption of rice in adults and children in Tehran is recognized as an important issue, thus supporting the importance of cumulative analysis of the risk of exposure to PTEs through food. Finally, national strategic environmental assessment and technological solutions for monitoring and protecting freshwater, soil, waste management, and chemicals as a global concern policy are needed for public health.

Health risk assessment of arsenic, lead and cadmium from milk consumption in Punjab, India

Milk is an integral part of the human diet and its contamination with heavy metals may alter the health of its consumers. The study was conducted to assess the health risk associated with the heavy metals in milk samples collected from urban and rural households of Ludhiana and Bathinda districts of Punjab, India. One hundred and fifty milk samples were analyzed for heavy metals i.e. arsenic, cadmium, lead and mercury using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry ICP-MS. The health risks, such as non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks from heavy metals in milk samples, were calculated for selected males and females of adults, children and elderly subjects. The results indicated that the arsenic, cadmium and lead content in milk samples were within permissible limit whereas mercury was not detected in any sample. The mean values showed that the selected urban and rural population of both districts was safe from non-carcinogenic risk associated with heavy metal content of milk. However, urban (50% males and 86% females) and rural (25% males) children of Bathinda district were at risk of cancer from arsenic and cadmium present in milk samples, respectively. It was also observed that the selected population of both districts were safe from carcinogenic risk due to the combined effects of heavy metals. It was concluded that even with a small amount of heavy metal in milk samples, the rural adults, rural male children and urban female children of Bathinda district had carcinogenic risk due to milk consumption. Hence, regular monitoring and testing of milk samples must be done as a public health measure to prevent heavy metal contamination in milk to safeguard the health of consumers.

Total mercury and fatty acids content in selected fish marketed in Quito - Ecuador. A benefit-risk assessment

Total mercury and fatty acids contents were determined in muscles of croaker, snapper, dolphinfish, blue marlin, and shark, from different markets in the Metropolitan District of Quito, Ecuador. Fifty-five samples were collected and analyzed for total mercury using cold vapor atomic fluorescence spectrometry, and the fatty acids were analyzed using gas chromatography equipped with a flame ionization detector. The lowest total mercury levels were found in snapper [0.041 µg·g^-1 wet weight (ww)] while blue marlin showed the highest (5.883 µg·g^-1 ww). EPA + DHA ranged from 1.0 mg·g^-1 in snapper to 2.4 mg·g^-1 in shark. A high omega-3/omega-6 ratio was found for all fish types; however, the HQ_EFA for the benefit-risk ratio was above 1, suggesting an evident risk to human health. Based on our results, consumption of croaker and dolphinfish is recommended up to one serving per week, considering the importance of EFAs intake and avoiding fish with elevated MeHg content. Therefore, Ecuadorian authorities could enhance public standards for seafood safety and develop consumer advice for pregnant women and young children to determine good fish choices or those to avoid.

The Level of Heavy Metal in Fresh and Processed Fruits: A Study Meta-analysis, Systematic Review, and Health Risk Assessment

Intake of fruits is important for health. However, it can be a contamination source of potentially toxic elements (PTEs). The present study aimed to investigate the concentration of PTEs such as arsenic (As), lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), and Iron (Fe) in various fresh and processed fruits. All the studies related to the concentration of PTEs in fresh and processed fruits by international databases including were included and non-carcinogenic risks assessment was evaluated based on the total hazard quotient (TTHQ). According to findings highest concentrations of As, Cd and Pb were observed in pineapple, mango, and cherry, while the lowest concentrations of these metals were found in berries, pineapple, and berries. Regarding trace elements, peach and cucumber represented the highest and lowest concentrations of Fe, respectively. Moreover, the highest and lowest concentrations of Cu were related to plum and banana, respectively. Considering the type of continents, the highest concentrations of As, Cd, Pb, Fe, Ni, and Cu among fresh and processed fruits belonged to Pan American Health Organization (EMRO), EMRO, African Region (AFRO), European Region (EURO), AFRO, and Western Pacific Region (SEARO). Eventually, the non-carcinogenic risk assessment of the heavy metal in fresh and processed fruits indicated that the risk pattern was different in various countries and the calculated TTHQ level in infants was below 1. Overall, the consumption of fresh and processed fruits is safe and does not pose a risk to the health of consumers.

Assessment of Carcinogenic and Non-carcinogenic Risk of Exposure to Metals via Consumption of Coffee, Tea, and Herbal Tea in Iranians

In the current study, we assessed health risk posed to Iranian consumers through exposure to metals via oral consumption of coffee, tea, and herbal tea of various trademarks collected from Iran market. Level of As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, Ni, and Pb in 243 samples was quantified by inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). The metal levels in coffee samples from different trademarks of a specific country had statistically similar levels of metals; however, metal levels differed significantly among brand names form different countries. Metal levels in tea samples differed significantly between domestic and imported products, while different trademarks of similar countries did not show significant variations in this respect. Metal level in herbal tea samples did not show significant variations among different trademarks. Nevertheless, it should be highlighted that mean concentrations of metals statistically differed among different herbal tea samples. Deterministic hazard quotients (HQs) were <1.0 for all non-carcinogenic metals and total hazard index (HI) values indicated no risk; however, probabilistic assessment calculated HI values >1. In both deterministic and probabilistic scenarios, carcinogenic metals As and Ni had an estimated incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) of medium level while that of Pb indicated no cancer risk. Sensitivity analysis showed that the concentration of metals had the most significant effect on non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks.

Sample Preparation and Analytical Techniques in the Determination of Trace Elements in Food: A Review

Every human being needs around 20 essential elements to maintain proper physiological processes. However, trace elements are classified as beneficial, essential, or toxic for living organisms. Some trace elements are considered essential elements for the human body in adequate quantities (dietary reference intakes, DRIs), while others have undetermined biological functions and are considered undesirable substances or contaminants. Pollution with trace elements is becoming a great concern since they can affect biological functions or accumulate in organs, causing adverse effects and illnesses such as cancer. These pollutants are being discarded in our soils, waters, and the food supply chain due to several anthropogenic factors. This review mainly aims to provide a clear overview of the commonly used methods and techniques in the trace element analysis of food from sample preparations, namely, ashing techniques, separation/extraction methods, and analytical techniques. Ashing is the first step in trace element analysis. Dry ashing or wet digestion using strong acids at high pressure in closed vessels are used to eliminate the organic matter. Separation and pre-concentration of elements is usually needed before proceeding with the analytical techniques to eliminate the interferences and ameliorate the detection limits.

Covalent Organic Frameworks-Based Electrochemical Sensors for Food Safety Analysis

Food safety is a key issue in promoting human health and sustaining life. Food analysis is essential to prevent food components or contaminants causing foodborne-related illnesses to consumers. Electrochemical sensors have become a desirable method for food safety analysis due to their simple, accurate and rapid response. The low sensitivity and poor selectivity of electrochemical sensors working in complex food sample matrices can be overcome by coupling them with covalent organic frameworks (COFs). COFs are a kind of novel porous organic polymer formed by light elements, such as C, H, N and B, via covalent bonds. This review focuses on the recent progress in COF-based electrochemical sensors for food safety analysis. Firstly, the synthesis methods of COFs are summarized. Then, a discussion of the strategies is given to improve the electrochemistry performance of COFs. There follows a summary of the recently developed COF-based electrochemical sensors for the determination of food contaminants, including bisphenols, antibiotics, pesticides, heavy metal ions, fungal toxin and bacterium. Finally, the challenges and the future directions in this field are discussed.

Heavy metals in daily meals and food ingredients in the Yangtze River Delta and their probabilistic health risk assessment

Heavy metal exposure via food consumption is inadequately investigated and deserves considerable attention. We collected hundreds of food ingredients and daily meals and assessed their probabilistic health risk using a Monte Carlo simulation based on an ingestion rate investigation. The detected concentrations of four heavy metals (Cr, Cd, Pb, and Hg) in all daily meal samples were within the limits stipulated in the National Food Safety Standard (GB 2762-2017), while that for As level was excessive in 0.3 % of daily meal samples. The same results were also observed in most food ingredient samples, and a standard-exceeding ratio of 23 % of As was observed in aquatic food or products, especially seafood, which was with the highest concentration reaching 1.24 mg/kg. Combining the detected heavy metal amounts with the ingestion rate investigation, the hazard quotients (HQs) of As, Cr, Cd, Pb, and Hg in daily meals and food ingredients were all calculated as lower than 1 (no obvious harm), while the incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) of As and Cr (>1 × 10-4), indicating that the residual As posed potential health effects to human health. It was noteworthy that the proportion of aquatic foods only accounted for 6.3 % of daily meals, but they occupied 41.1 % of the heavy metal exposure, which could be attributed to the high amounts of heavy metals in aquatic foods. This study not only provided basic data of heavy metal exposure and potential health risks through daily oral dietary intake, but also illuminated the contribution of different kinds of food ingredients. Specifically, the study highlighted the contamination of aquatic foods with As, especially seafood such as shellfish and bivalves.

Elucidating Heavy Metals Concentration and Distribution in Wild Edible Morels and the Associated Soil at Different Altitudinal Zones of Pakistan: a Health Risk Implications Study

This study evaluates macro-nutrient (MN) and prevailing heavy metal (HM) concentrations in wild edible morels (WEM) species viz., Morchella crassipes, Morchella pulchella, and Morchella eohespera and the associated soil that were collected from different altitudinal zones (Azad Kashmir, Murree, Swat, and Skardu) of Pakistan. A special emphasis on potential health risk analysis for HM in WEM consumption was also explored. In general, MN concentration in fruiting bodies and their associated soil samples were in the following order: potassium (K) > magnesium (Mg) > calcium (Ca) > sodium (Na) and Ca > Mg > K > Na, respectively. The concentration for HM in WEM ranged between 20.0 and 78.0 mg/kg, 1.09 and 22.1 mg/kg, 2.1 and 22.1 mg/kg, 0.26 and 13.1 mg/kg, 0.43 and 9.1 mg/kg, 1.07 and 7.0 mg/kg, 1.01 and 5.4 mg/kg, and BDL and 3.1 mg/kg for zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), manganese (Mn), cobalt (Co), chromium (Cr), lead (Pb), and cadmium (Cd), respectively, and those in underlying soil samples, lowest and highest HM concentration were recorded for Zn (33.7-113.6 mg/kg), Cu (13.0-40.8 mg/kg), Ni (3.1-23.0 mg/kg), Pb (1.3-22.0 mg/kg), Co (2.9-5.6 mg/kg), Cr (2.7-11.1 mg/kg), Mn (2.0-7.1 mg/kg), and Cd (1.1 mg/kg 7.6). Although, Cd, Pb, and Zn concentrations in some of the WEM samples and Cd in the soil had exceeded the permissible limits set by different organizations. The greater accumulation/or transfer potential for Zn, Co, Ni, and Cu were recorded in WEM from their associated soil. The health risk index (HRI) for HM in all assessed samples of WEM was < 1, predicting no risk to the consuming population. Furthermore, the correlation analyses depicted that the power of hydrogen (pH), low organic matter contents, and sandy texture are likely to be responsible for HM transfer to the lower pool of soil. But the increasing concentration of HM in WEM warrants threats and suggests further monitoring and future policy plan and implementation to avoid the potential health risks via its regular consumption.

Dietary heavy metal(loid)s exposure and prevalence of chronic kidney disease of unknown aetiology (CKDu) in Sri Lanka

Intake of heavy metals and metalloids through the diet is posing a big research challenge in Sri Lanka due to the increasing occurrence of chronic kidney disease of unknown aetiology (CKDu) among the farming communities pursuing their livelihoods in the North Central Province (NCP). Duplicated diet studies were conducted on a sample of 62 individuals comprising adult males, adult females, boys, and girls who were selected following a demographic survey in an area of the NCP where there was a high incidence of CKDu. A health risk assessment was made by analysing the heavy metal(loid)s content in the diet samples, by means of inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Rice and vegetables constituted the main diet in the CKDu prevalent areas, with all gender and age categories adhering to similar daily diet patterns. Results of the heavy metal(loid) analysis of duplicated food intake samples indicated that the amounts of Pb in rice, As and Pb in vegetables, and Cd in fish exceeded the recommended daily limits. Because consumption of rice was much higher than the other food items, the estimated daily intake of Pb exceeded the permissible daily intake of 3.5 µg/kg_BW/day. There were no significant differences between the age and gender categories in respect of estimated daily intake of Pb, which suggested that the entire population of the study area faced the risk of a high level of Pb exposure. Further, the hazard quotient of Pb was greater than 1. Influence of heavy metal(loid)s on the prevalence of CKDu cannot be understated, and as such interventions are required as a matter of urgency to reduce the local population's dietary exposure to heavy metal(loid)s.

Inconsistent effects of a composite soil amendment on cadmium accumulation and consumption risk of 14 vegetables

Organic and inorganic mixtures can be developed as immobilizing agents that could reduce heavy metal accumulation in crops and contribute to food safety. Here, inorganic materials (lime, L; zeolite, Z; and sepiolite, S) and organic materials (biochar, B, and compost, C) were selectively mixed to produce six composite soil amendments (LZBC, LSBC, LZC, LZB, LSC, and LSB). Given the fact that LZBC showed the best performance in decreasing soil Cd availability in the incubation experiment, it was further applied in the field condition with 14 vegetables as the test crops to investigate its effects on crop safety production in polluted greenhouse. The results showed that LZBC addition elevated rhizosphere soil pH by 0.1-2.0 units and reduced soil Cd availability by 1.85-37.99%. Both the biomass and the yields of edible parts of all vegetables were improved by LZBC addition. However, LZBC addition differently affected Cd accumulation in edible parts of the experimental vegetables, with the observation that Cd contents were significantly reduced in Allium fistulosum L., Amaranthus tricolor L., and Coriandrum sativum Linn., but increased in the three species of Lactuca sativa. Further health risk assessment showed that LZBC application significantly decreased daily intake of metal (DIM), health risk index (HRI), and target hazard quotient (THQ) for Cd in Allium fistulosum L., Amaranthus tricolor L., and Coriandrum sativum Linn., whereas increased all the indexes in Lactuca sativa. Our results showed that the effect of a composite amendment on Cd accumulation in different vegetables could be divergent and species-dependent, which suggested that it is essential to conduct a pre-experiment to verify applicable species for a specific soil amendment designed for heavy metal immobilization.