ABSTRACT The contamination of heavy metals in cultivated soils has become a critical concern worldwide. This study examined the concentrations, pollution sources, environmental, and ecological risks, and both noncarcinogenic and carcinogenic health risks of major heavy metals in soils in Dong Thap province, Vietnam. The average concentrations of As, Pb, Cu, Zn, and Cd measured 4.80, 13.94, 24.49, 94.67, and 0.06 mg·kg −1 dry soil, respectively. Concentrations of these metals did not differ significantly across soils cultivated with different crops and plants in most locations. Using mathematical models, we assessed the ecological risk index (RI) and found values ranging from 15.36 to 57.36, indicating that local soils varied from non‐polluted to extremely polluted in terms of ecological risk. The noncarcinogenic risk assessment showed that all heavy metals posed no threat of noncarcinogenic effects. In contrast, some monitoring locations contributed significantly to carcinogenic risk for children, while other locations presented tolerable carcinogenic risks for both children and adults. Pearson correlation analysis revealed weak correlations between heavy metals and soil texture components such as sand, silt, and clay. Overall, these findings offer new insights into the long‐term presence of heavy metals in soil, their sources, and their potential impacts on ecosystems, while also providing a theoretical foundation for soil pollution management.

A nationwide assessment of heavy metal accumulation in rapeseed across China: Distribution patterns, driving factors, and safety thresholds.

Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) is a significant vegetable crop, and its fruits tend to accumulate cadmium (Cd). The background value of soil Cd in the main pepper-producing area (southwest China) is relatively high, which results in a high risk of Cd contamination in pepper and its products in this area. Therefore, the cultivation of pepper varieties with low Cd accumulation is vital for ensuring food safety and the development of the pepper industry. A prior genome-wide association study (GWAS) identified the heavy-metal-transporting ATPase gene (CaHMA1) as a crucial gene that facilitates Cd accumulation in pepper fruits. Herein, three semi-thermal asymmetric reverse PCR (STARP) molecular markers (STARP1, STARP2, and STARP3) were designed according to three single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) loci (Chr02_154361710, Chr02_154362005, and Chr02_154367255) identified in the intronic region of CaHMA1. Subsequently, these STARP molecular markers were validated using 70 pepper core germplasms with known genotypes. The results indicated that the STARP markers exhibited an identity of over 95% with the corresponding SNP markers. By utilizing the aforementioned STARP markers, the pepper population was divided into two haplotypes (Hap) (Hap1 and Hap2). Under Cd stress, the average Cd content in the fruits of Hap2 pepper was 27.01% lower than that of Hap1. Collectively, these three STARP markers can rapidly and accurately identify the Cd accumulation capacity of pepper varieties with different haplotypes. Furthermore, 24 SNPs were additionally screened from 150 core SNPs according to the criteria of minor allele frequency (MAF) > 0.40, polymorphism information content (PIC) > 0.35, observed heterozygosity (OH) < 0.6, and uniform distribution across 12 chromosomes. These 24 SNPs were combined with the 3 SNPs from the STARP marker developed in the intron region of CaHMA1, and a pepper DNA fingerprinting map was successfully constructed. This DNA fingerprinting map achieved a 100% identification efficiency for 216 pepper germplasm accessions and was able to distinguish the Cd accumulation capacities among different pepper germplasm accessions. In conclusion, this study provides reliable STARP markers for the marker-assisted selection (MAS) breeding of pepper varieties with low Cd accumulation. Moreover, the constructed DNA fingerprinting map possesses dual functions, identifying varieties and evaluating Cd accumulation traits that have high practical value in pepper breeding.

ABSTRACT The present study assessed the seasonal variability, contamination status, and ecological and human-health risks of heavy metals in soils collected from the Jambuva municipal landfill in Vadodara, Gujarat, India. Across all seasons, the average concentrations of Fe (1404 mg/kg), Mn (46.4 mg/kg), Zn (28.6 mg/kg), Cr (8.35 mg/kg), Cu (8.18 mg/kg), Ni (2.59 mg/kg), Co (2.05 mg/kg), Pb (1.52 mg/kg), and Cd (0.65 mg/kg) reflected clear anthropogenic enrichment, with some metals exceeding typical background levels. Metal concentrations decreased during the monsoon due to dilution, runoff, and leaching, but increased again post-monsoon as contaminants re-accumulated in surface soils. Pollution indices (Igeo, Cf, Ef) highlighted strong anthropogenic influence, particularly for Cd, Cr, Ni, and Pb. Among all metals, Cd showed the highest enrichment and contamination levels, while ecological-risk assessment identified Cd and Cr as the primary contributors to overall ecological hazard. Health-risk analysis revealed that Cr posed the greatest non-carcinogenic risk, mainly through dermal exposure, and carcinogenic risks for Cr and Ni exceeded USEPA acceptable limits for both adults and children. Two-way ANOVA confirmed significant seasonal effects (p < .05) on all metals and organic matter, while PCA suggested common anthropogenic sources. These findings underscore the need for improved waste management and continuous environmental monitoring.

The risk assessment of soil-rice system at the cross-provincial and national scales is of great significance for the prevention of heavy metal pollution and corresponding hazards. In this study, based on 183 studies, the concentrations of heavy metals in soil-rice systems, and the associated ecological and health risks in three main rice cultivated regions in China were determined. The species sensitivity distribution (SSD) curves were used to evaluate the predicted no effect concentrations (PNEC), hazardous concentration for 5 % of species (HC5) and the percentages of local species affected. The average Cd content in paddy soils in YRB (0.50 mg/kg) and SCR (0.64 mg/kg) exceeded the standards (0.4 mg/kg for YRB, 0.3 mg/kg for SCR). The ecological risks caused by Cadmium (Cd) and Mercury (Hg) were unneglectable. Chromium (Cr) and Arsenic (As) had the greatest effects on all local species, and the affected ratios in YRB, NP, and SCR were 46.4 % and 21.3 %, 45.7 % and 18.0 %, 42.1 % and 21.9 %, respectively. Arsenic (As) was the main contributor of non-carcinogenic health risks and influenced 41.9 %, 38.1 % and 86.6 % of men, women, and child, respectively. The estimated blood lead (Pb) concentration of child was approximately 8 times higher than adult groups, which was mainly caused by higher Pb gastrointestinal absorption rate due to long-term high demand for iron. This study provides a reference for the large-scale and long-term management of heavy metal pollution in soil-rice systems in China. In the future, in-field experiments should be conducted to further validate the outcomes based on literatures.

ABSTRACT This study investigated the contamination characteristics, sources, ecological risks and human health risks of heavy metals in 333 surface soil samples collected from the Bohai New Area Industrial Park. The average concentrations of Cu, Ni, Pb, Cd, As and Hg in both industrial and agricultural soils were below the Class II limits of GB36600-2018, with overall low-to-moderate pollution levels. Spatially, Cu and Cd were enriched in both areas, while Hg and As posed higher risks mainly in the industrial zone; Pb and Ni exhibited scattered risk patterns in both areas. PCA identified three main sources: mixed industrial-agricultural sources (Cu, Ni, Cd, As), industrial sources (Hg), and transportation-petrochemical sources (Pb). Human health risks were within the limits of USEPA standards, and industrial soil showed slightly higher risks. Children were more vulnerable to heavy metal exposure, with ingestion as the main pathway. As was the key contributor to the health risks. These findings provide a scientific basis for soil pollution control in industrial-agricultural regions.

This study aimed to assess the contamination of sediments in Wadi Djedra and its tributaries by seven trace elements. The average concentrations of Mn, Pb, Zn, Cu, Ni, Cd, and Cr in the sediments ranged from 31.4 to 59.2, 1.2 to 18.4, 15.1 to 54.7, 11.2 to 19.7, 1.1 to 14.7, 0.1 to 0.3, and 0.1 to 4.3 mg/kg, respectively. Sediment contamination was evaluated using the enrichment factor (EF), geoaccumulation index (Igeo), and potential ecological risk index (Eri). The Igeo values for Cd indicated moderate contamination at sites S2, S4, S5, and S7, while for other sites and elements, the values were negative, indicating no contamination. The results revealed very high enrichment of Cd and Cu in the analyzed sediments, attributed to human activities. In contrast, chromium and manganese concentrations were comparable to those observed in the Earth's crust. Suggesting even a depletion of metals in the sediments (EF &lt; 2). The Eri index measurements showed that the sediments in the Djedra basin exhibited moderate to high pollution levels for Cd at most study sites. Lithogenic sources, urban discharges, and agricultural activities were the main factors affecting the concentrations of Cd, Cu, Zn, and Pb in the studied sediments. Although the current contamination is not alarming in the short term, it should be considered in future monitoring and management efforts.

To assess the contamination of agricultural soils by heavy metals (HMs) in the Kebir-Rhumel basin of northeastern Algeria, soil samples from a depth of 0–20 cm were analyzed for metal concentration (Cd, Cr, Cu, Pb, and Zn). Pollution levels and ecological risks were evaluated using several indices, including the contamination factor (Cf), contamination degree (Cd), ecological risk factor (Er) and potential ecological risk index (PERI). These metrics specifically targeted soils irrigated with river water. Human health risks were assessed using the hazard index (HI) and carcinogenic risk (CR) indices based on ingestion exposure pathways for adults and children. The concentration of heavy metals in the agricultural soils of the Kebir-Rhumel basin followed this order: Zn > Cr > Pb > Cu > Cd. The average concentrations of Cd, Cr, Cu, Pb, and Zn were 0.84, 60.83, 39.26, 58.01, and 93.71 µg.g−1, respectively. Notably, pollution levels of Pb, Cd, and Cu were particularly concerning with concentrations exceeding background levels at 85%, 75% and 70% of sampling sites, respectively. Health risk assessments indicated that the average hazard index (HI) and hazard quotient (HQ) values were below 1. However, the carcinogenic risk (CR) and total carcinogenic risk (TCR) for Cd, Cr, and Pb were higher for children compared to adults. TCR mean values were about 4.93E − 05 and 4.61E − 04 for both adults and children, with chromium identified as the primary contributor to carcinogenic risk. Both CR and TCR exceeded the acceptable carcinogenic risk threshold of 1.0E − 04, potentially posing carcinogenic risks through extended exposition. Overall, these findings highlight significant concerns regarding soil quality in this region. This study can guide the development of effective strategies for monitoring, mitigating and managing the levels of heavy metals in agricultural soils, thereby ensuring the safeguarding of the human health.

Nine (9) samples of fresh milk from three different breeds of cow (Nama, Red Bororo and White Fulani) were collected from Sukari, Ibi, and Tella areas in Taraba state, for the determination of the presence and concentration of Lead, Cadmium, and Chromium using AAS, as well as health assessment of the heavy metals in fresh cow milk. The results obtained are; for Sukari, the average concentration of Pb, Cd, and Cr in Nama, Red Bororo and white Fulani milks are 0.308±0.002, 0.0067±0.002, and 0.037±0.002 ppm respectively. For Ibi, the average concentration of Pb, Cd, and Cr in Nama, Red Bororo and white Fulani milks are 0.493±0.002, 0.0079±0.002, and 0.078±0.002 ppm respectively. And for Tella, the average concentration of Pb, Cd, and Cr in Nama, Red Bororo and white Fulani milks are, 0.391±0.002, 0.0073±0.002, and 0.064±0.002 ppm respectively. The results of the finding revealed that, the concentration of Pb and Cd exceeded the WHO permissible limit of 0.02 ppm for Pb and 0.005 ppm for Cd. Also, the concentration of Cr in Sukari and Ibi exceeded the WHO permissible limit and within the range of 0.1 ppm in Tella. Based on the evaluated mean concentration, Lead and Cadmium were detected at high levels in all the nine samples, while chromium was low in the samples collected from weary and Tella and equals the permissible limit in Ibi samples. Therefore, consumers of fresh cow milk from the locations under consideration are at risk of some of the health challenges associated with these heavy metals.

Background: Hypothyroidism, characterized by insufficient thyroid hormone production by This study aims to assess the concentrations of six heavy metals, lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), Nickel (Ni), Arsenic (As), and Selenium (Se), in samples of Indian basmati rice available in Karbala markets, Iraq. The concentrations of (As, Cr, Se, Ni, Pb, and Cd) were measured using atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS), to evaluate the potential human health risks associated with the consumption of this rice, several health risk assessment parameters were calculated, including the Estimated Daily Intake (EDI), Target Hazard Quotient (THQ), Hazard Index (HI), and Cancer risk (CR). The average concentrations of As, Cr, Se, Ni, Pb, and Cd in the analyzed rice samples were 94.77, 326.06, 132.58, 179.39, 164.42, and 156.90 µg/kg, respectively. The average value of the Hazard Index (HI) was 4.242, which exceeded safe levels. The corresponding average carcinogenic risk (CR) values for As, Cr, Ni, Pb, and Cd were 8.21×10-04, 8.71×-04, 9.40×10-04, 8.05×10-06, and 5.70×10-03, respectively. However, the concentrations of As and Cd in several samples exceeded the maximum permissible limits set by European Union regulations. The calculated health risk indicators (EDI, THQ, HI, and CR) remained within internationally recognized safe exposure levels. In conclusion, although specific heavy metal concentrations in Indian basmati rice sold in Karbala exceed regulatory limits, the overall risk to human health from regular consumption appears minimal under current dietary exposure scenarios. Continuous monitoring and stricter import quality control are recommended to ensure long-term food safety for the local population.

Heavy metal contamination is a serious issue that poses a significant threat to soil environments and human health worldwide.The rapid population growth in developing countries, together with challenging economic conditions, has led to uncontrolled urbanization.These activities have become major sources of environmental pollution, affecting soil, water, and air quality.The objective of this study was to analyze the concentration of heavy metals in the soil of Setif City.To achieve this objective, 16 soil samples were collected using a regular 3 3 km grid across the region.Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES) was used to analyze these samples, and their pH , organic matter (OM), and limestone (CaCO 3 ) levels were also determined to assess their physical and chemical properties.Zinc (Zn), Copper (Cu), Nickel (Ni), and Cadmium (Cd) were selected as representative heavy metals for the study.The sixteen diffractograms obtained from powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis showed the presence of calcite and quartz, along with elements such as Cd, Zn, Cu, and Ni .The results indicate that the soils in Setif City are alkaline, with pH values ranging from 8.00 to 8.47.The average concentrations of Zn, Cu, Ni, and Cd were 407.06, 55.85, 32.21, and 0.16 mg kg -1 , respectively, in the sixteen soil samples collected from Setif City.When compared with international standards (e.g., AFNOR NF X31-101 and CEPA), Zn concentrations in several samples exceeded acceptable thresholds, indicating moderate to high levels of contamination in specific zones.This finding is supported by the geoaccumulation index (Igeo) and contamination factor (Cf), both of which identified Zn as the main pollutant of concern.Contrary to the initial assumption of no contamination, the study reveals that localized Zn accumulation may pose potential environmental risks, highlighting the need for continuous monitoring and site-specific remediation strategies

ABSTRACT This study assessed the extent of potentially toxic element contamination in soils surrounding the Bokajan cement factory, with a particular focus on spatial and seasonal variations, using X-ray fluorescence. A multi-index framework comprising an enrichment factor (EF), geo-accumulation index (Igeo), contamination factor (CF), pollution load index (PLI), potential ecological risk index (PERI), and Nemerow integrated pollution index (NIPI) was employed. The study results indicated that the average concentrations of Al, Ti, Mn, Cr, Zn, Ni, Pb, As, Cu and Cd in the soil around the cement factory were 65,084.17, 5485, 440.92, 63.33, 58.92, 24.83, 11.83, 9.17, 9.17 and 0.75 mg kg−1, respectively. The maximum concentrations of Cd (3 mg kg−1) and Zn (97 mg kg−1) exceeded the World Health Organization limits, whereas the concentrations of Al (81,660 mg kg−1) and Ti (6,770 mg kg−1) surpassed the global background levels. The average EF values indicate minimal anthropogenic sources, except for Cd (EF = 4.144), which showed moderate enrichment, whereas the average Igeo results revealed moderate Cd pollution (Igeo = 0.831). The As, Al, Cd and Ti contamination factors were moderate in some study areas. The PLI exceeded one at all sites, reaching a maximum of 28.331 in the eastern region during the monsoon season. The PERI and NIPI revealed a considerable overall risk during the monsoon for the northern, eastern, and southern sites, primarily influenced by Cd exposure. Multivariate statistical analysis, including Pearson correlation analysis, principal components analysis, and cluster analysis, suggested mixed lithogenic and cement-related sources. Furthermore, the ANOVA identified significant directional differences for As, Cr, Ni, Pb and Zn, as well as significant seasonal increases in Cd and Ti. This study identified Cd and Ti as priority pollutants, established the first comprehensive ecological risk baseline for Bokajan, and recommended the implementation of advanced emission control measures, enhanced waste management practices and long-term environmental monitoring.

To comprehensively and objectively assess the health risks posed by heavy metal contamination in mining areas, this study focuses on the soil of a lead-zinc mine in Liuzhou, Guangxi. By analyzing the concentrations and forms of heavy metals in the soil, the study applies the geo-accumulation index （Igeo）, pollution load index （PLI）, risk assessment code （RAC）, and probabilistic risk assessment to evaluate the extent of contamination and its associated health risks to humans. The results indicated that the average concentrations of Pb, Zn, and Cd in the mining area soil exceeded the regional background levels of Liuzhou. The mean Igeo values for these metals were 2.36, 2.08, and 2.34, respectively, with an average PLI of 29. Significant spatial variations in contamination levels were observed. Areas with high Igeo values and heavy pollution loads were mainly located in mining development zones, where the average pollution level was classified as severe. In contrast, lower Igeo values were primarily found on slopes, where the pollution level was classified as moderate. The results of the soil heavy metal speciation and risk assessment code （RAC） showed that the bioavailable concentrations of heavy metals in the mining area soils were ranked in descending order as follows： Cd &gt; Zn &gt; Pb. The migration risks were categorized as medium risk for Cd and Zn and low risk for Pb. Deterministic risk assessment revealed that dietary intake was the primary pathway for daily heavy metal exposure among residents in mining areas. A probabilistic health risk model for total soil heavy metal content, established through Monte Carlo simulation, indicated that the probabilities of carcinogenic risk for adults and children in the mining area were 1.5% and 9.5%, respectively. Meanwhile, the probabilities of non-carcinogenic risk were 51% for adults and 99% for children. A Monte Carlo model was established using the bioavailable fraction of heavy metals in soil. The results showed that adults did not face health risks, while children had a 95% probability of non-carcinogenic risk. Sensitivity analysis revealed that Pb and Cd in the soil had the most significant impact on the health risk assessment results.

Abstract The aim of this study was to examine the presence of heavy metals (Pb, Cd and Hg) in the muscle tissue of fish from the Sava River, from two locations: upstream of Belgrade near Obrenovac and in Belgrade. In order to determine the content of heavy metals in fish muscle tissue, 196 samples of different types of fish were collected: Prussian carp, carp, perch and catfish, during the fall and spring of 2023 – 2025. The content of heavy metals was determined by means of atomic absorption spetrometry. The highest average content of Pb (0.282±0.068 mg/kg) and Hg (0.303±0.116 mg/kg) was found in the muscle tissue of catfish, while the lowest average content of Pb and Hg was determined in the muscle tissue of perch (0.088±0.025 mg/kg), (0.090±0.038 mg/kg), respectively. The highest average content of Cd was recorded in the muscle tissue of carp (0.103±0.030 mg/kg), while the lowest was found in the muscle tissue of catfish (0.032±0.015 mg/kg). In all tested samples, the determined concentrations of Pb and Hg were below the maximum allowed concentrations regulated by the Rulebook of the Republic of Serbia and European Union regulations. The determined concentrations of Cd in the muscle tissue of carp, catfish and Prussian carp were on several locations above the maximum allowed concentration of 0.05 mg/kg of fresh fish. Fish from this part of the Sava river cannot be considered completely safe for human consumption, especially when it comes to species that show a tendency to accumulate Cd. Overall, seasonal variations were more evident than spatial differences, with several species showing moderately higher metal concentrations in spring, particularly in 2025, indicating subtle but recurring seasonal tendencies. Differences between the territories upstream of Belgrade and within Belgrade were generally small, although mercury levels were consistently higher at the downstream location, suggesting a mild but stable spatial influence.

Health risks from street dust are increasing day by day in Chattogram City due to rapid urbanization. In this study, concentrations of heavy metals in 72 street dust samples from 24 major sites covering both urban and rural areas were determined using ICP-MS. The study revealed average concentrations of As, Pb, Cd, Cr, Ni, Cu, Zn, Hg, Mn, Be, V, and Co in street dust samples. The average concentration of heavy metals in street dust was about 2.13 to 22.97 times that of the background soil level. This result indicates the potential influence of anthropogenic activities on the metal contamination, particularly vehicular and industrial emissions, reinforced by multivariate analyses (PCA and HCA). However, elevated concentrations of Hg in both rural and urban areas possess adverse health effects like kidney failure. Contamination status analysis revealed the degraded environmental condition, specifically in urban areas, particularly due to Cd, Zn, Cu, and Hg emissions. Moreover, health risk assessment revealed that inhalation is the predominant pathway exceeding the safe limit of the health index (HI). HI was 30, 19, 10, and 9 times higher than the threshold value for newborns, adolescents, children, and adults. Therefore, newborns are likely to be more prone to the non-carcinogenic health consequences than adults. However, all the receptors are at the potential health risk of carcinogenic effects, as the cumulative cancer risk (CCR) exceeded the benchmark of 10-4. Therefore, the present study reveals a significant health concern, underscoring the crucial need for environmental monitoring, public health strategies, and the use of masks outdoors.

Introduction High cadmium (Cd) levels in Peru are limiting access to international markets that have implemented stricter thresholds for allowable concentrations in chocolate and its derivatives. This study aimed to analyse the distribution of cadmium profiles and their edaphic controls across different soil orders under cacao ( Theobroma cacao L.) cultivation in the Peruvian Amazon.terms. Methods The research was conducted in three locations within two districts of the San Martín department, encompassing an area of 4,073.54 km². The study sites included the towns of La Unión and Nuevo San Martín in the Pólvora district (Tocache province) and the town of Perla Mayo in the Campanilla district (Mariscal Cáceres province). In each locality, ten 100 m² plots were selected, resulting in a total of 30 plots. Soil samples were collected by excavating pits measuring 1 × 0.8 m, with samples taken from two depth intervals: 0–30 cm and 30–60 cm. Results Total cadmium concentrations and key physicochemical parameters were then analysed. The soils in La Unión exhibited the highest average Cd concentrations at 0–30 cm depth (1.35 ± 0.21 mg/kg), while the lowest concentrations were recorded in Perla Mayo at the same depth (0.27 ± 0.25 mg/kg). Regarding soil classification, Entisols and Alfisols presented the lowest average Cd contents (0.66 ± 0.35 mg/kg and 0.15 ± 0.15 mg/kg, respectively). Among the evaluated soil properties, cation exchange capacity (CEC) and clay content were identified as the primary factors influencing cadmium levels, followed by soil pH. Discussion The cadmium tends to accumulate in the surface horizons of fine-textured, acidic soils at each study site. The edaphic conditions in Perla Mayo appear to be the most favourable, showing minimal cadmium accumulation, and may serve as a reference for developing agricultural management strategies aimed at reducing cadmium uptake in cacao-growing soils.

Multi-source apportionment of soil heavy metals and spatial heterogeneity of associated risks in overlapping zones with high geological background and mining-smelting activities.

Kinetics and potential risk of heavy metal release from commercial organic fertilizers in northern China.

Combining random forest and XGBoost models for source apportionment and health risk assessments of heavy metals in suburban farmland soils.

As a major production area of Ganoderma lucidum, Longquan City has a population with habitual consumption of this medicinal mushroom. This study employed a relative source contribution (RSC) model, coupled with Monte Carlo simulation, aimed to quantify the probabilistic health risk associated with potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in G. lucidum from a specific geographical region. PTEs concentrations (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb) in G. lucidum were quantified via inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) after microwave-assisted acid digestion for As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, and via a direct mercury analyzer for Hg from powdered samples. Consumption patterns were collected through a questionnaire survey (n = 241). Results indicated that the average concentrations of As, Cd, Hg, Ni and Pb did not exceed those reported in previous Ganoderma literature, while Cr concentrations exceeded literature values. Daily intake varied significantly across demographics, with retirees and older adults (≥ 60years) exhibiting the highest consumption. The overall PTEs exposure risk associated with G. lucidum consumption in the local population was found to be relatively low. However, higher risk potentials were observed for As and Cr, necessitating speciation analysis (e.g., inorganic As and hexavalent Cr) for conclusive risk assessment. Sensitivity analysis identified consumption frequency as the primary risk driver, highlighting the imperative for health education to promote rational consumption of medicinal fungi. This study provides authentic data to refine regional regulations and offers science-based guidance to minimize PTEs exposure through G. lucidum consumption, emphasizing the necessity of specific population-specific monitoring.