Essential and toxic heavy metals in cereals and agricultural products marketed in Kermanshah, Iran, and human health risk assessment

Cadmium, lead, mercury and arsenic in fresh vegetables and vegetable products intended for human consumption in the Republic of Serbia, 2015-2017

The concentrations of cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), mercury (Hg) and arsenic (As) were determined in 455 samples of 27 species of vegetables and 28 different processed vegetables collected during the period from January 2015 to December 2017. Vegetables (n = 387) and vegetable products (n = 68) originated from 31 countries, including Serbia. The samples were analysed by inductively coupled plasma - optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). The concentrations of Cd, Pb, Hg and As in the vegetables and vegetable products were compared to the maximum levels set by the European Union and the Serbian legislation. The concentration of mercury was less than the limit of detection in each analysed sample. One or multiple measurable toxic metals (Cd, Pb and/or As) were found in 250 samples (54.9%; n = 455). According to the Regulations which were valid until the end of August 2021, the maximum levels of Cd, Pb and As were exceeded in 19 samples (4.2% of the samples of vegetable and vegetable products; n = 455), i.e. in 13 samples of vegetables: Cd in three, Pb in nine and As in one sample and in 6 samples of vegetables products: Cd in three, Pb in one and As in two samples. Regarding the new EU and Serbian legislation which is valid since September 2021 the maximum levels of Cd and Pb for vegetables and vegetable products were exceeded in 118 samples (25.9% of the samples of vegetable and vegetable products; n = 455), i.e. in 95 samples of vegetables: Cd in 67 and Pb in 28 samples and in 23 samples of vegetable products: Cd in 20 and Pb in 3 samples.

Risk assessment of heavy metals concentration in cereals and legumes sold in the Tamale Aboabo market, Ghana

The greatest risks posed by heavy metals to human health are linked to exposure to hazardous metals, which may be present in staple foods such as cereals and legumes. In this study, the levels of harmful metals and vital minerals like cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), arsenic (As), and copper (As) in certain cereals and legumes sold in Tamale Aboabo Market in the Northern Region of Ghana were evaluated. A total of twenty-one (21) samples were randomly selected, digested, and analyzed using an atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The samples included three each of cowpea, groundnuts, and soybean (AAS). As concentrations varied from 0.017 mg/kg, Cd concentration was undetectable, Cu concentrations ranged from 0.019 to 0.042 mg/kg, and Zn concentrations were low. The levels of As in the legumes and grains were higher than the 0015 mg/kg FAO/WHO guideline limit. According to the study, there is a risk associated with consuming any of the cereal and legume crops offered in the Tamale Aboabo market that contain any amount of As. The use of pesticides, fertilizers, and runoff from other agricultural fields may have contributed to the higher levels in the cereals. The hazard index via ingestion values for both adults and children were found to be less than 1, indicating no need for potential non-carcinogenic concern. Generally, there is no cancer risk with consumption of the cereals and legumes in terms of all the metals investigated.

Heavy Metals in Unprocessed or Minimally Processed Foods Consumed by Humans Worldwide: A Scoping Review

Heavy metals (HM) can be accumulated along the food chain; their presence in food is a global concern for human health because some of them are toxic even at low concentrations. Unprocessed or minimally processed foods are good sources of different nutrients, so their safety and quality composition should be guaranteed in the most natural form that is obtained for human consumption. The objective of this scoping review (ScR) is to summarize the existing evidence about the presence of HM content (arsenic (As), lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), methylmercury (MeHg), and aluminum (Al)) in unprocessed or minimally processed foods for human consumption worldwide during the period of 2011–2020. As a second objective, we identified reported HM values in food with respect to Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO) International Food Standards for Maximum Limits (MLs) for contaminants in food. This ScR was conducted in accordance with the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology and PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR); advance searches were performed in PubMed, ScienceDirect and FAO AGRIS (Agricultural Science and Technology Information) databases by two reviewers who independently performed literature searches with specific eligibility criteria. We classified individual foods in food groups and subgroups according to the Global Individual Information Food Consumption Data Tool (FAO/WHO GIFT). We homologated all the reported HM units to parts per million (ppm) to determine the weighted mean HM concentration per country and food group/subgroup of the articles included. Then, we compared HM concentration findings with FAO/WHO MLs. Finally, we used a Geographic Information System (GIS) to present our findings. Using our search strategy, we included 152 articles. Asia was the continent with the highest number of publications (n = 79, 51.3%), with China being the country with the largest number of studies (n = 34). Fish and shellfish (n = 58), followed by vegetables (n = 39) and cereals (n = 38), were the food groups studied the most. Fish (n = 42), rice (n = 33), and leafy (n = 28) and fruiting vegetables (n = 29) were the most studied food subgroups. With respect to the HM of interest, Cd was the most analyzed, followed by Pb, As, Hg and Al. Finally, we found that many of the HM concentrations reported exceeded the FAO/OMS MLs established for Cd, Pb and As globally in all food groups, mainly in vegetables, followed by the roots and tubers, and cereals food groups. Our study highlights the presence of HM in the most natural forms of food around the world, in concentrations that, in fact, exceed the MLs, which affects food safety and could represent a human health risk. In countries with regulations on these topics, a monitoring system is recommended to evaluate and monitor compliance with national standards. For countries without a regulation system, it is recommended to adopt international guidelines, such as those of FAO, and implement a monitoring system that supervises national compliance. In both cases, the information must be disseminated to the population to create social awareness. This is especially important to protect the population from the consumption of internal production and for the international markets of the globalized world.

Health Risk Assessment of Essential and Toxic Metals in Canned/Pouched Food on Kitten and Adult Cats: an Animal Health Risk Assessment Adaptation Assay

The main aim of this study was to determine the levels of Al, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn in commercial canned and pouched cat foods (salmon, tuna, liver, fish, and other aquatic products) and assess the potential health risks to kitten (≤ 1 years old) and adult cats (≥ 1 years old) associated with the recommended average consumption rate of labels. The study was also aimed to adapt the health risk assessment method to animal health and to support clinical prevention and diagnosis. The detected levels of the metals were below the data from other studies, except the mean Fe in all and Pb levels in salmon and kitten foods. Target hazard quotient (THQ) and total target hazard quotient (TTHQ) values did not exceed 1. That means the studied metals do not pose a health risk for adult cats and kittens. Dietary Hg and Cd should also be considered in the differential diagnosis of cases with clinical or postmortem findings, especially regarding neurological, kidney, and liver tissues. In conclusion, although canned/pouched consumption does not pose a health risk with regard to metals, further studies of health risk assessment for other pollutants by this first adaptation method will be necessary.

Pasta as a Source of Minerals in the Diets of Poles; Effect of Culinary Processing of Pasta on the Content of Minerals

Pasta is a product that requires culinary processing which can affect the content of minerals in the finished product. The study aimed to examine how cooking pasta (1) in salted water (1 teaspoon-16 g of salt per 1 litre of water) or unsalted water and (2) rinsing cooked pasta with running water affects the content of minerals. Thirty-five samples of six types of pasta were analysed. The content of minerals was determined using the ICP-OES method. Retention of minerals in the cooked pasta was calculated. Taking the culinary treatment into account, the intake of minerals with pasta was assessed for children, adolescents, and adults, and the values were compared with the recommendations for the population of Poland. The analysed culinary factors had a statistically significant influence on the content of minerals. Adding salt to water when cooking pasta significantly increased the content of Na in the product, which in turn was negatively correlated with the content of other minerals. When pasta was cooked in unsalted water, it contained less Na and more other minerals than pasta cooked in salted water. Rinsing of pasta reduced the content of all minerals. Pasta is an important source of Mg, Cu, and Mn in the diet of Poles. These ingredients are particularly important to ensure correct development and functioning of the human body. The best method of culinary treatment of pasta is cooking in unsalted water without rinsing.

Distribution, source and health risk assessment based on the Monte Carlo method of heavy metals in shallow groundwater in an area affected by mining activities, China

Mining activities exert a far-reaching impact on the quality of groundwater, and health problems caused by heavy metal pollution have attracted global attention. In this study, inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) was employed to determine the contents of 8 heavy metals (Cd, Cr, As, Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn, and Pb) in shallow groundwater samples retrieved from a mining area in northern Anhui. Multivariate statistical methods were adopted to analyze the distribution and source of pollution and to evaluate 5% and 95% health risks based on Monte Carlo simulation. Fe, As and Cr significantly exceeded the safe drinking water standards of the World Health Organization (WHO). The average concentrations of As and Cr were as high as 46.45 μg/L and 133.96 μg/L, respectively. The correlation analysis and principal component analysis (PCA) results revealed that heavy metals are affected by complex factors, the main factor being human activities. The total carcinogenic health risks of Cr and As in adults were 2.49 × 10-3 and 3.43 × 10-4, respectively, which exceeded the maximum acceptable risk value (1 ×10-4) recommended by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), affecting human health. According to the USEPA classification of hazardous ingestion (HI), at HI < 1, the impact of non-carcinogenic heavy metals on human health is negligible. These results indicate that local residents should strengthen the monitoring of Cr and As pollution in shallow groundwater.

Heavy metal contamination and health risk assessment in grains and grain-based processed food in Arequipa region of Peru

Heavy metals (HMs) in crops and processed foods are a concern and pose a potential serious health hazard. This study investigated possible presence of HMs in grains and processed products in the Region of Arequipa in Peru. Concentrations of Cd, As, Sn, Pb, and Hg were determined for commonly consumed grains in 18 districts of the region and processed products from 3 popular markets of Arequipa city, using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) and Cold Vapor Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (CVAAS). HM concentrations above the Codex General Standard limits were found for As (0.17 mg kg^-1) and Cd (0.11 mg kg^-1) in cereal grains. Elevated Pb concentrations of 0.55, 0.75, and 5.08 mg kg^-1 were found for quinoa, maize, and rice products, respectively; and attributed to processing conditions. The Total Hazard Index (HI) for polished rice and rice products had values between 1 and 10, showing non-carcinogenic adverse effects. Total Target Cancer Risk (TR_T) and uncertainty analysis of percentile P_90% for polished rice and quinoa products gave values above permissible limit of 10^-4, indicating an unacceptable cancer risk. The Nemerow Composite Pollution Index method (NCPI) showed that processed products had a significant pollution level due to the presence of Pb. While most crops grains had acceptable low HM levels, this is the first report of concerning HM concentrations in some consumed grains and processed products in southern Peru and indicates the necessity to find ways to decrease certain toxic metals in foods.

Dietary nutrients and health risks from exposure to some heavy metals through the consumption of the farmed common carp (CYPRINUS CARPIO)

Common carp (Cyprinus carpio) is one of the most important cultured fish species in Poland. The aims of our study were to determine the concentration of essential minerals in the muscle tissue of carp obtained from a pond culture and to compare the content of these minerals with the physiological norms of nutrition for the Polish population, Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA), and Estimated Average Requirements (EAR). The non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risk by assessment of the Estimated target hazard quotients (THQ), total target hazard quotients (ΣTHQ), and carcinogenic risk were also studied. The muscle tissue of the carp was rich in macroelements. The pattern significance gradation of element concentrations was as follows: Na > K > Ca > P > Mg > Al > Zn > Fe > Cu > Mn > Cr > Se > Co. The concentration of toxic heavy metals in the samples was lower than the maximum allowable level of metals in food products. The risk of consumption of toxicants by an adult at a daily intake of 100 g of fish was 1.45% for Pb, 0.1% for Hg, 0.02% for Cd, and 0.02% for As, compared to the allowable daily intake for each toxicant. The value of the target hazard quotients of each metal was less than 1, indicating that the intake of a single metal through the consumption of carp meat does not pose a considerable health hazard. The total value of the target hazard quotients was also less than 1, indicating the safety of the combined effects of the chemicals. The major risk contributor was Pb with 82.9%, followed by Hg (9.38%), As (6.43%), and Cd (1.29%).

Iranian population exposures to heavy metals, PAHs, and pesticides and their intake routes: a study protocol of a national population health survey

Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the world and the third leading cause of death in Iran. It has been proven that numerous cancer cases are caused by exposure to environmental pollutants. There is a public health concern regarding an increase in exposure to carcinogens across Iran through different sources (air, food, and water) and a lack of research to address this issue. This study aims to gather data on exposure to heavy metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and pesticides and their intake routes during the implementation of a national population health survey. This is a cross-sectional study of environmental pollutants in Iran, with a stratified multi-stage random sampling method, which led to 660 nationally representative samples in 132 clusters in three sequential parts. The first will be questionnaires to obtain demographics, assets, food records, air quality, and food frequency. The second will be physical measurements, including anthropometric and body composition. The third will be lab assessments that measure 26 types of environmental pollutants (7 heavy metals, 16 PAHs, and 3 pesticides) in urine, inhaled air, and consumed food and water of the population under study using ICP-MS and GS-MS devices. The results of this study will inform policymakers and the general population regarding the level of threat and will provide evidence for the development of interventional and observatory plans on the reduction of exposures to these pollutants. It could also be used to develop local standards to control contaminants through the three exposure routes. This study protocol will obtain data needed for policymakers to set surveillance systems for these pollutants at the national and provincial level to address the public concerns regarding the contamination of food, air, and water.

Phytoavailability and human risk assessment of heavy metals in soils and food crops around Sutlej river, India

We assessed the phytoavailability of heavy metals in wheat and rice grown on soils along flood plains of Sutlej river (India) and its effects on human health. Surface soil samples along with wheat (pre-monsoon season) and rice (post-monsoon season) grain samples were collected during the years 2017 and 2018. Soil samples were analysed for total and DTPA-extractable metals and, wheat and rice grains samples for total metals. There were no significant (p < 0.05) changes in total metal concentration during both the years, but the concentration of DTPA-extractable metals was higher during pre-monsoon than post-monsoon season. The concentration of Pb, Cd, and Co in wheat grains, whereas the concentration of Cr, Co, Pb and Cd in rice grains surpassed their safe limits. Both DTPA-extractable metals (water soluble plus exchangeable) and non-exchangeable fractions explained more than 80% of the variations in metal uptake by plants. The bioaccumulation factor for DTPA-extractable metals (BCF) was above one, but Pollution Load Index for these metals (PLI) was less than one. The carcinogenic risks due to ingestion of wheat and rice grains were higher for Cd. The BAF, PLI and health risks were higher along transboundary of the river. These results suggest that exchangeable and non-exchangeable fractions are contributing towards metals uptake by wheat and rice along flood plain soils of the Sutlej river and the present study may act as a model for carrying out similar studies to find out the risks of heavy metals and it effect on human health in future.

Long-term time trend of lead exposure in young German adults - Evaluation of more than 35 Years of data of the German Environmental Specimen Bank

Lead is a ubiquitous pollutant with well-known effects on human health. As there is no lower toxicological threshold for lead in blood and since data gaps on lead exposure still exist in many European countries, HBM data on lead is of high importance. To address this, the European Human Biomonitoring Initiative HBM4EU classified lead as a priority substance. The German Environmental Specimen Bank (German ESB) has monitored lead exposure since more than 35 years. Using data from the early 1980s to 2019 we reveal and discuss long-term trends in blood lead levels (BLLs) and current internal exposure of young adults in Germany. BLLs in young adults decreased substantially in the investigated period. As results from the ESB sampling site Muenster demonstrate, the geometric mean of BLLs of young adults decreased from 1981 (78,7 μg/L) to 2019 (10.4 μg/L) by about 87%. Trends in human exposure closely correlate with air lead levels (ALLs) provided by the European Monitoring and Evaluation Programme (EMEP). Hence, the decrease of BLLs largely reflects the drop in air lead pollution. Known associations of sex, smoking, alcohol consumption, and housing situation with BLLs are confirmed with data of the German ESB. Although internal lead exposure in Germany decreased substantially, the situation might be different in other European countries. Since 2010, BLLs of young adults in Germany levelled out at approximately 10 μg/L. The toxicity of lead even at low levels is known to cause adverse health effects especially in children following exposure of the child or the mother during pregnancy. To identify current exposure sources and to minimize future lead exposure, continuous monitoring of lead intake and exposure levels is needed.

Development of Heavy Metal Potentiostat for Batik Industry

The consumption of reactive dyes in the batik industry has led to a severe concern in monitoring the heavy metal level in wastewater. Due to the necessity of implementing a wastewater monitoring system in the batik factory, a Heavy Metal potentiostat (HMstat) was designed. The main goal of this study is to understand the optimal design concept of the potentiostat function in order to investigate the losses of accuracy in measurement using off-the-shelf devices. Through lab-scale design, the HMstat comprises of an analog potentiostat read-out circuit component (PRCC) and a digital control signal component (CSC). The PRCC is based on easy to use components integrated with a NI-myRIO controller in a CSC. Here, the myRIO was equipped with built-in analog to digital converter (ADC) and digital to analog converter (DAC) components. In this paper, the accuracy test and detection of cadmium(II) (Cd2+) and lead(II) (Pb2+) were conducted using the HMstat. The results were compared with the Rodeostat (an open source potentiostat available on the online market). The accuracy of the HMStat was higher than 95% and within the precision rate of the components used. The HMstat was able to detect Cd2+ and Pb2+ at −0.25 and −0.3 V, respectively. Similar potential peaks were obtained using Rodeostat (Cd2+ at −0.25 V and Pb2+ at −0.3 V).

Contamination of staple crops by heavy metals in Sibaté, Colombia

Heavy metal contamination in water resources, soil, and food sources is an issue that compromises food safety in Sibaté, Colombia. In the present study concentration of heavy metals [HMs], such as Cu, As, Pb, Cr, Zn, Co, Cd and Ni, present in vegetables included in the typical Colombian diet were measured. The study was conducted as follows: samples of parsley, artichoke and carrots produced in a location near the Muña dam were collected, where the Bogotá River water is treated for use as a water resource. To determine food safety, national and international [HMs] established limits were compared with quantified [HMs] in samples of different vegetable parts and of the surrounding soil. Fresh samples were separated in their respective parts for cold acid digestion with HCl and HNO₃ (1:1) for 15 days. Heavy metal mean ± standard error (SE) were as follows (mg/kg) As 2.36 ± 0.185, Cd 0.16 ± 0.009, Co 0.43 ± 0.019, Cr 12.1 ± 0.453, Cu 13.1 ± 1.68, Ni 0.00, Pb 7.07 ± 0.482 and Zn 3.976 ± 0.332. Cd, Cr, As, Co and Ni showed high transfer factor in Cynara scolymus. Moreover, high Pb, Cu and Zn transfer factor were present in Petroselinum crispum. Except for Daucus carota roots, there was a high metal transfer specifically in Petroselinum crispum leaves and other different plant parts, with high transfer factor for Cr, As, Co, Pb, Cu and Zn.

Challenges Associated with Byproducts Valorization-Comparison Study of Safety Parameters of Ultrasonicated and Fermented Plant-Based Byproducts

In order to promote the efficient use of byproducts from the production of plant-based beverages, which still contain a large amount of nutritional and functional compounds, microbiological and chemical safety characteristics should be evaluated and, if needed, improved. Many challenges are associated with byproducts valorization, and the most important ones, which should be taken into account at the further steps of valorization, are biological and chemical safety. For safety improving, several technological treatments (biological, physical etc.) can be used. In this study, the influence of low-frequency ultrasonication (US) and fermentation with Lactobacillus casei LUHS210 strain, as physical and biotechnological treatments, on the safety characteristics of the byproducts (BYs) from the processing of rice, soy, almond, coconut, and oat drinks was compared. Ultrasonication, as well as fermentation, effectively improved the microbiological safety of BYs. Ultrasonication and fermentation reduced the concentration of deoxynivalenol, on average, by 24% only in soy BYs. After fermentation, 15-acetyldeoxynivalenol was formed in all samples (<12 µg kg⁻¹), except for soy BYs. The lowest total biogenic amines content was found in fermented rice BYs and ultrasonicated coconut BYs. When comparing untreated and fermented BYs, significant changes in macro- and micro-elements content were found. Ultrasonication at 37 kHz did not significantly influence the concentrations of macro- and micro-elements, while fermentation affected most of the essential micro-elements. Consequently, while ultrasonication and fermentation can enhance the safety of BYs, the specific effects must be taken into account on biogenic amines, mycotoxins, and micro and macro elements.

Heavy metal levels in milk and fermented milk products produced in the Almaty region, Kazakhstan

Background and Aim:

Monitoring food quality and safety remain a pressing issue. The intermediate results of the study on the residual amounts of heavy and toxic elements in food products are presented herein. The aim of this study was the determination of heavy metals in milk and fermented milk products from basic farms in the Almaty region, Kazakhstan.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 120 raw milk samples and 80 cottage cheese samples were analyzed. The milk and cottage cheese samples were subjected to mineralization during the analysis to remove organic impurities and determine the heavy metal concentrations using atomic absorption spectrometry.

Results:

The contents of cadmium, lead, and arsenic in all raw materials and food products did not exceed the maximum permissible concentrations.

Conclusion:

The dairy samples showed low contents of cadmium, mercury, lead, and arsenic that did not exceed the allowable concentrations for basic farms in the Almaty region.

Human Health Risk Assessment and Potentially Harmful Element Contents in the Cereals Cultivated on Agricultural Soils

Potentially harmful element (PHE) contents were investigated in six species of cereals in southern Poland, with human health risk implications assessed afterwards. The PHE contents belonged to the following ranges (mg/kg wet weight): As below the limit of detection ( oat (HQ = 0.38) > maize (HQ = 0.02). The total non-carcinogenic risk value of the statistical daily consumption of cereals was acceptable low (HQ = 0.58). The acceptable cancer risk (CR) level of 1.0 × 10-5 investigated only for As was not exceeded under any of the intake scenarios. Concerning the mean As content in cereals consumed daily in statistical amounts the CR value was equal to 5.1 × 10-8. The health risk value according to the Pb content in cereals using the margin of exposure (MOE) approach was equal to 1.27, indicating an acceptable low risk.

Concentration and Risk Assessment of Potentially Toxic Elements, Lead and Cadmium, in Vegetables and Cereals Consumed in Western Iran

The concentration of cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) in vegetable (potatoes, onions, tomatoes, lettuce, leeks, and carrots) and cereal (wheat and rice) samples collected from Iran were investigated by a graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrophotometer. In addition, we determined the health risks due to exposure to Cd and Pb through vegetable and cereal consumption by computing the estimated daily intake, the target hazard quotient (THQ), the total THQ, and the margin of exposure. The mean concentrations of Pb in potato, onion, tomato, lettuce, leek, carrot, wheat, and rice samples were measured as 0.029 ± 0.011, 0.016 ± 0.012, 0.007 ± 0.005, 0.022 ± 0.020, 0.040 ± 0.048, 0.029 ± 0.025, 0.123 ± 0.120, and 0.097 ± 0.059 mg kg^-1 wet weight, respectively, and all were below the maximum allowable concentrations set by the European Union. The mean concentrations of Cd in potatoes, onions, tomatoes, lettuce, leeks, carrots, wheat, and rice samples were measured as 0.022 ± 0.013, 0.011 ± 0.009, 0.003 ± 0.003, 0.007 ± 0.005, 0.015 ± 0.024, 0.013 ± 0.011, 0.046 ± 0.043, and 0.049 ± 0.04 mg kg^-1 wet weight, respectively, and all were below the permissible levels established by the European Union. The corresponding values for the estimated daily intake of Cd were acceptable and lower than the provisional tolerable daily intake. The THQ and total THQ values of Cd through consumption of all vegetables and cereals were lower than 1. The margin of exposure values for Pb in samples were >1, showing no significant human health risks for both potentially toxic elements. The findings of this study indicated there is no risk associated with exposure to Pb and Cd through the intake of selected vegetables and cereals in western Iran.

Heavy metal content in the green fodder of field pea/oat mixtures destined for cattle feed

The objective of the study was to establish the effect of component share in mixtures and harvest date on concentrations of selected heavy metals in the green fodder of field pea, oat, and their mixtures. The research hypothesis assumed that the cultivation of peas and oats in pure sowing, and in mixtures will also allow to choose combinations from which the forage will have the lowest content of heavy metals. Field research was conducted at the Zawady Experimental Farm (52° 03' 39″ N, 22° 33' 80″ E) which belongs to Siedlce University of Natural Sciences and Humanities. Two factors were tested in the study: I-component share in the mixture: field pea-pure stand 100%, oat-pure stand 100%, field pea 75% + oat 25%, field pea 50% + oat 50%, field pea 25% + oat 75%; II-harvest date: field pea flowering stage, field pea flat pod stage. Plant material was sampled to determine the following elements: Cu, Zn, Cd, Pb, Cr, and Ni. The results of the study demonstrated that field pea grown in pure stand had the highest copper and zinc contents, and the lowest chromium and nickel contents. Field pea mixed with oat significantly reduced heavy metal content in green fodder. Cadmium and lead contents in the green fodder of field pea/oat mixtures were too low to be determined by means of the spectrometer Perkin Elmer Optima 8300. Regular checks of heavy metal contents are recommended in spite of their low amounts in the green fodder of field pea/oat mixtures.

A systematic literature review for some toxic metals in widely consumed rice types (domestic and imported) in Iran: Human health risk assessment, uncertainty and sensitivity analysis

In present study we aimed to investigate the literature in the form of systematic review to determinate the concentrations of some toxic metals (arsenic, lead, and cadmium) in widely consumed rice brands in Iran and their related health risks. International and Iranian national databases were searched carefully with appropriate keywords for papers on toxic metal contamination of rice from Agust-2000 to Agust-2018. Initially, 560 articles were found, of which only the 50 papers fit the inclusion criteria and were selected for further analysis. The Monte Carlo Simulation was applied to generate missing data (mean, standard deviation, data distribution and sample size) of toxic metal concentration in some papers. Then, statistical analysis, health risk assessment, and uncertainty and sensitivity analysis were performed. The results indicated that approximately 88% of rice consumed in Iran (including Iranian, Pakistani and Indian rice) do not meet the national standard and WHO/FAO guideline requirements and their related health risks are unacceptable. The risks of arsenic and lead in Indian rice and cadmium in Iranian rice were considerably higher than others. In conclusion, according to our findings, In conclusion, it is necessary to prevent toxic metals contamination of rice by modifying cultivation patterns and, also, prevent low-quality rice brands to be imported.

Extraction and determination of heavy metals in soil and vegetables irrigated with treated municipal wastewater using new mode of dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction based on the solidified deep eutectic solvent followed by GFAAS

BACKGROUND

In this research, a new extraction method based on dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction and the solidification of deep eutectic solvent has been developed for the determination of heavy metals in soil and vegetables prior to their analysis by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (GFAAS). In this method, a green solvent consisting of 1-decyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride and 1-undecanol was used as an extraction solvent, yielding the advantages of material stability, low density and a suitable freezing point near room temperature.

RESULTS

Under optimal conditions, enrichment factors are in the range of 114-172. The calibration graphs are linear in the range of 0.02-200 µg kg^-1 and limits of detection are in the range of 0.01-0.03 µg kg^-1 . Repeatability and reproducibility of the method based on seven replicate measurements of 0.80 µg kg^-1 of Hg and 0.20 µg kg^-1 of Pb and Cd in analyzed samples were in the range of 2.3-4.1% and 3.7-6.6%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

A new deep eutectic solvent consists of two parts: 1-decyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride and 1-undecanol in a molar ratio of 1:2. The accuracy of the proposed procedure was also assessed by determining the concentration of the studied metal ions in a polluted farmland soil standard reference material. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry.

The concentration data of heavy metals in vegetables of Guilan province, Iran

Food safety is a major problem currently facing the world and food consumption has been identified as the major pathway for human exposure to hazardous pollutants such as heavy metals. These datasets include the concentration of heavy metals like Cd, Pb, Cu, Ba, Co and Sn in selected vegetables in Guilan province and estimate daily intake of metals. The results of this dataset showed that the average concentration of heavy metals including Cd, Pb, Cu, Ba, Co and Sn in total vegetables were 0.55, 1.098, 4.095, 5.98, 0.69, and 0.2 mg/kg, respectively. The mint showed higher levels of Pb, Cu and Co contamination compared to other vegetables. The estimated daily intakes of Cd, Pb, Cu, Ba, Co and Sn for children were 0.311, 0.622, 2.320, 3.388, 0.391, 0.119 µg/day, whereas for adults were 0.182, 0.363, 1.357, 1.98, 0.228, 0.069 mg/kg, respectively. The present data highlights that both adults and children consuming vegetables ingest significant amount of these metals.

The concentration of heavy metals in noodle samples from Iran's market: probabilistic health risk assessment

In the current study, the concentration of heavy metals including lead (Pb), chromium (Cr), cadmium (Cd), and aluminum (Al) in commonly instant noodles consumed in Iran (either imported from other countries or produced in Iran) was investigated by acid digestion method followed by an inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry system (ICP-OES). Also, the associated non-carcinogenic risk due to ingestion of heavy metals for adults and children was estimated by calculating percentile 95% target hazard quotient (THQ) in the Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) method. The average concentrations of Pb, Cr, Cd, and Al in Iranian instant noodle samples were measured as 1.21 ± 0.81, 0.08 ± 0.10, 0.03 ± 0.06, and 9.15 ± 4.82 (mg/kg) and in imported instant noodle samples were 1.00 ± 0.61, 0.07 ± 0.07, 0.04 ± 0.03, and 15.90 ± 0.93 (mg/kg), respectively. A significant difference (p value < 0.05) in the mean concentration of Pb, Cr, Cd, and Al of Iranian instant noodle and imported instant noodle samples was observed. Also, the concentration of Pb, Cr, Cd, and Al in all brands of instant noodle (0.025 mg/kg, 0.050 mg/kg, 0.003 mg/kg, and 0.237 mg/kg, respectively) surpassed the WHO-permitted limits for Pb, Cr, Cd, and Al. Percentile 95% of THQ of Pb, Cr, Cd, and Al for the adult consumers was calculated as 0.012, 0.000007, 0.010, and 1.789; while in the case of children, percentile 95% of THQ of Pb, Cr, Cd, and Al was defined as 0.044, 0.00023, 0.035, and 6.167, respectively. Health risk assessment indicated that both adults and children are at considerable non-carcinogenic health risk for Al (THQ > 1). Therefore, approaching the required strategies in order to reduce the concentration of heavy metals particularly Al in the instant noodle is recommended.

Data on assessment of physical, chemical and biological characteristics of effluent from wastewater treatment in Torbat Heydarieh, Iran

Data on the chemical, physical and biological of effluent from wastewater treatment are provided in table format in the current article. Samples were taken in Peak Flows at effluent Treatment Plants. Sampling and tests were conducted according to the standards methods. The collected data were analyzed by SPSS software and excel program. Nickel metal showed higher amounts than the standards required for irrigation agricultural land. Data could be useful from environmental and agricultural sciences to those concerned about heavy metals, Alkalinity, EC, COD, BOD₅ and Microbial concentrations threats.

The dataset on rural women's awareness and attitudes about residential constructions in accordance with the health standards A case study of Gilan-e-Gharb, Iran

Residence can affect various aspects of one׳s physical, psychological and social health. Therefore, the present dataset aimed to assess the level of rural housewives' awareness and attitudes towards the importance of residence and its compliance with health standards. To collect the present dataset, four villages were selected from the Gilan-e-Gharb township using the randomized cluster sampling method, then 25 subjects were chosen from each village (totaling 100 altogether). Furthermore, the subjects' awareness and attitudes were measured using a researcher-made questionnaire, and the data were then analyzed using the SPSS Statistical Software Version 21.0. The obtained data demonstrated that rural housewives' awareness and attitudes towards the subject were significantly different in terms of education and age group (P< 0.05), but the opposite was true in terms of the variables of marital status and training by health practitioners (P> 0.05). Based on the obtained data, the awareness and attitudes of rural women towards the importance and necessity of health standards of residence were low and moderate, respectively. In addition, providing rural women with effective training in various ways to raise their awareness and attitudes is of prime significance.

Data for interventional role of training in changing the knowledge and attitudes of urban mothers towards food hygiene (A case study of Ravansar Township, Kermanshah, Iran)

Food hygiene is a key factor at the time of production and distribution of food. Therefore, the present study aimed to assess the interventional role of education in changing the knowledge and attitudes of urbane mothers towards food hygiene in Ravansar Township, Kermanshah, Iran. To this end, 200 mothers residing in Ravansar Township were selected using simple random sampling. First, the subjects' knowledge and attitudes towards food hygiene were evaluated in a pre-test, and then after holding some educational sessions, the two variables were assessed again in a post-test using a researcher-made questionnaire with 72 questions. The reliability and validity of the questionnaire were evaluated using Cronbach's alpha and content validity, respectively. After completing the questionnaires, the results were analyzed using the SPSS Statistical Software Version 21.0, and all tests were at the significance level of α = 0.05. The results of the present study demonstrated that education did not promote the knowledge of married subjects, those whose use of media was average or high, and the ones aged above 20 (P > 0.05). However, the results showed that education had significant effects on other factors (P < 0.05). In addition, it was revealed that the effects of education on promoting the attitudes of individuals aged above 60, those holding academic education and married subjects were not significant (P > 0.05), Nevertheless, the results revealed that education had significant effects on other factors (P < 0.05). Hence, it can be concluded that education plays a major role in changing the knowledge and attitudes of urban mothers towards food hygiene.

Dataset for effect comparison of irrigation by wastewater and ground water on amount of heavy metals in soil and vegetables: Accumulation, transfer factor and health risk assessment

The irrigation source plays an important role in the amount of contaminates in soil and cultivated agricultural products. In this study, the concentration and human health risks of heavy metals (Zn, Mn, Cu, Cr, Cd and Pb) were evaluated in soil, water and vegetables collected from two sites (FGW: Farms irrigated with ground water, FWW: Farms irrigated with wastewater) of Bushehr, Iran. The trend of heavy metals concentration in vegetables from either site was in the following order: Mn ˃ Zn ˃ Cu ˃ Pb ˃ Cr ˃ Cd. Except Cd and Pb, the concentration of heavy metals was in the range of European Union (2006) permissible limit. THQ (Target hazard quotient) values were the highest in Mn followed by the Pb, Cd, Cu, Zn and Cr. Mn, Pb and Cd exceeded safe limit of THQ in several cases, while THQ of other heavy metals was in the range of safe limit. Based on the results, it can be concluded that heavy metals contamination in vegetables grown in Bushehr, especially in FWW site, may pose a great health risks to the local inhabitant through consumption of vegetables. Therefore, it is recommended that the discharge of industrial and municipal wastewater into water resources witch used for vegetable irrigation should be the first step in controlling the level of heavy metals in vegetables.

Carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic health risks of metal(oid)s in tap water from Ilam city, Iran

One of the most important pathways for exposure to metals is drinking water ingestion. Chronic or acute exposure to metals can endanger the health of the exposed population, and hence, estimation of human health risks is crucial. In the current study for the first time, the concentrations of Mercury (Hg), Arsenic (As), Zinc (Zn), Lead (Pb) and Cobalt (Co) in 120 collected tap water samples (2015, July-November) from Ilam city, Iran were investigated using flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Also, the metal-induced carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks for consumers exposed to tap drinking water were calculated. The average (range) concentrations of Hg, Zn, As, Pb and Co were defined as 0.40 ± 0.10 μg/L (ND-0.9 μg/L), 5014 ± 5707 μg/L (2900.00-5668.33 μg/L), 21.008 ± 2.876 μg/L (3.5-62 μg/L), 30.38 ± 5.56 μg/L (6-87 μg/L), and 11.34 ± 1.61 μg/L (0.1-50 μg/L), respectively. Average concentrations of all examined metals were significantly higher than WHO and national standard recommended limits. The ranking order of metals concentrations in the tap drinking water was Zn > Pb > As > Co > Hg. Except for Hg and Co, at least one age group consumers were at considerable non-carcinogenic risks induced by Zn, As and Pb [Target Hazard Quotient (THQ > 1)]. The rank order of age groups consumers based on THQ and Incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) was <1 years >1-9 years > 20 + years > 10-19 years. The calculated ILCR for As in all age groups were higher than 10^-3 value. All age groups of consumers in Ilam city, especially infants (<1 years) and children (1-10 years), are at considerable non-carcinogenic and carcinogenesis risk.

What do we know about exposure of Iranians to cadmium? Findings from a systematic review

Cadmium is an important environmental contaminant. High consumption of chemical fertilizers and industrial activities in recent decades has caused people to be worried about exposure to cadmium. There is no policy for environmental and biological monitoring of exposure to cadmium in the general population in Iran. This study was aimed to review cadmium content in consuming foods and biological samples in Iran, systematically. We developed a comprehensive search strategy and used it to search on Web of Science, Scopus, Science Direct, and Scientific Information Database until 28 December 2016. The totals of 285 articles were identified and finally 31 original papers were selected. Cadmium contamination was found in Iranian food groups such as rice, cereal and legumes, canned tuna fish, vegetables, fruit juice, and egg. This study showed that cadmium amount in 75% of the consumed rice samples (domestic and imported) was higher than the maximum limits approved by institute of standards and industrial research of Iran. Lettuce samples in Yazd were recorded the highest concentration of cadmium compared to other studies. In addition, high amount of cadmium was observed in the blood of the general population. Regarding the cadmium contamination in food and blood samples in Iran, policies must be adopted to reduce exposure to cadmium through different matrices as much as possible.

Estimated Dietary Intakes of Toxic Elements from Four Staple Foods in Najran City, Saudi Arabia

Exposure of the inhabitants of Najran area in Saudi Arabia to the toxic elements As, Cd, Cr, and Pb through foods has not been previously investigated. Exposure to such elements is an important public health issue, so the study described here was performed with the aim of determining estimated dietary intakes (EDIs) for these metals in Najran area. The As, Cd, Cr, and Pb concentrations in four staple foods (rice, wheat, red meat, and chicken) were determined by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. A food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was completed by 80 study participants. These data were used to estimate dietary intakes of the metals in the four staple foods. The mean As, Cd, Cr, and Pb EDIs in the four food types were 1.1 × 10-6-2.6 × 10-5, 1.42 × 10-5-2.2 × 10-4, 3.4 × 10-4-8.0 × 10-4, and 2.3 × 10-5-2.1 × 10-3 mg/kg bw day, respectively. Hazard Quotients (HQ) for all elements did not exceed one. The highest Pb concentration was found for chicken and the source of this toxic element in this food needs to be investigated in the future. The lowest As concentration was found for wheat highest in rice. The EDIs for all elements in the four food types were below the provisional tolerable weekly intakes set by the World Health Organization (WHO).