Abstract
The concentrations of Se, Ba, Zn and Mn were determined in samples of Brazil nuts collected in two ways: a) in a production farm predominantly for export and, b) in various points of sale from different regions of Brazil. Instrumental neutron activation analysis was the analytical technique used in this study. Results indicate that the concentrations of Se and Ba varied greatly among the Brazil nut samples analyzed. This large variability may be related to the soil characteristics from which the nuts were produced. An inverse correlation was observed between the concentrations of Se and Ba. On the other hand, the concentrations of Zn and Mn did not show significant differences among these samples.
Highlights
Brazil nuts (Bertholletia excelsa, family Lecythidaceae) grow on wild trees predominantly from the Amazon region [1]
The concentrations of Se, Ba, Zn and Mn were determined in samples of Brazil nuts collected in two ways: a) in a production farm predominantly for export and, b) in various points of sale from different regions of Brazil
Results indicate that the concentrations of Se and Ba varied greatly among the Brazil nut samples analyzed
Summary
Brazil nuts (Bertholletia excelsa, family Lecythidaceae) grow on wild trees predominantly from the Amazon region [1]. The consumption of this food has been highly suggested by nutritionists. Selenium is an important part of antioxidant enzymes that act in the prevention of age-related illnesses such as cancer and cardiovascular diseases [2] Besides selenium, this nut has a high protein content (15–20%), sulfur amino acids, 60–70% lipids (Essential fatty acids) and vitamin E [3]. Smith [7] reported that the Brazil nut tree has a unique capacity for accumulating barium and radium in its fruit This accumulation for Ba and Ra has been explained as a possible formation of organic complexes which increase the mobility of alkaline earth ions, for these elements, favoring their movement redistribution during fruit development. Samples were collected in two ways: a) on a production farm predominantly for export and, b) in various points of sale from different regions of Brazil
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