Estimated Daily Intake Values Research Articles

Human health risk associated with nitrates in some vegetables: A case study in Gonabad

Vegetables are vital parts of the human diet, however, they also may contain substances such as nitrate which can affect human health. This cross-sectional research was conducted with the objective to assess the health risk of citizens in Gonabad from nitrate exposure through the consumption of some vegetables. Common vegetables namely, cucumber, carrot, tomato, potato, lettuce, cauliflower, onion and mushroom were analyzed for nitrate contents. The values of the estimated daily intakes (EDIs), target hazard quotients (HQs) were computed to estimate the non-carcinogenic health risk. Nitrate concentrations in the selected vegetables ranged from 25 to 2100 mg/kg (fresh weight). The highest concentration of nitrate was found in lettuce (2100 mg/kg). The EDI values in some vegetables exceeded the acceptable daily intake for nitrate. The calculated HQ values of carrot, potato, lettuce, onion and mushroom were HQ ≥ 1 for children, signifying non-carcinogenic health risk to the age group. For teenagers group, the HQ values for lettuce and onion was ≥ 1. Furthermore, potato, lettuce and onion were unsafe considering HQ values related to nitrate concentration in adults. Therefore, the control of possible contamination sources and minimization of vegetable nitrate concentration are recommended.

Perchlorate and chlorate in aquatic products from Shenzhen, China, and their implications for human exposure

Perchlorate and chlorate are chemically stable species with high solubility and are widely distributed in various foods. Dietary intake is considered to be the main route of human exposure to these chemicals. Aquatic products are an important component of residents' daily diets. However, there is still a lack of a complete research report on perchlorate and chlorate contamination in aquatic products. Thus, this study investigated the concentration of perchlorate and chlorate in shellfish, freshwater fish, freshwater shrimp, sea fish, and sea shrimp from Shenzhen and assessed human exposure risks. The detection frequency of chlorate was low, and the incidence of perchlorate was significantly lower than previous studies, demonstrating a substantial reduction in perchlorate contamination in Shenzhen waters. However, certain samples exhibited relatively elevated concentrations. The highest concentration of chlorate (43.1µgkg−1) and perchlorate (14865µgkg−1) were both found in sea shrimp. Notably, the 95th percentile estimated daily intake (EDI) value of perchlorate derived from sea shrimp and shellfish surpassed the reference dose (RfD), while the EDI values of chlorate were all below the RfD. Therefore, Shenzhen residents are advised to consume sea shrimp and shellfish with caution to minimize the possible health risks linked to perchlorate and chlorate exposure.

Trophodynamics and health risk assessment of heavy metals in seafood from a tropical estuary in the gulf of Guinea

Seafood is an essential protein source for coastal communities. However, they can accumulate heavy metals from human activities which could pose a potential health risk to consumers. In this study, we investigated the distribution, bioaccumulation, trophic transfer and potential human health risk of heavy metals in sediments, shell and fin fish collected from the Escravos Estuary in southern Nigeria. Heavy metals (Ni, Cd, V, Pb and Cu) in sediments, periwinkles and tongue soles from the two study sites were lower than the permissible limits for fishery products. The metal distribution in fish tissues was in the decreasing order of liver > gills > muscles > gonads > rest of the fish. Moderate to high BSAF (>1) was reported for Cd, Pb and Cu. All the studied metals, except Pb, showed evidence of biomagnification from periwinkle to tongue sole. The estimated daily intake (EDI) and hazard ratio (HR) for metals in periwinkles from both study sites were lower or within the USEPA reference doses (RfD) for the respective daily intake and HR value < 1, except for Cd, V and Pb for children. In contrast, EDI values in the muscle of tongue soles were higher than the RfD values for heavy metals except for Ni and Pb, whereas HR values > 1 except for Ni, Cd and V. In the whole fish, EDI and HR values were disproportionately high in both study sites with higher values reported for children. This study provides the first insights on the trophic transfer and risk assessment of heavy metals from petroleum and gas operations impacting the Escravos Estuary and the implications to public health.

Risk Assessment and Sources Apportionment of Toxic Metals in Two Commonly Consumed Fishes from a Subtropical Estuarine Wetland System.

The widespread occurrence of heavy metals in aquatic environments, resulting in their bioaccumulation within aquatic organisms like fish, presents potential hazards to human health. This study investigates the concentrations of five toxic heavy metals (Pb, Hg, Zn, Cu, and Cr) and their potential health implications in two economically important fish species (Otolithoides pama and Labeo bata) from a subtropical estuarine wetland system (Feni estuary, Bangladesh). Muscle and gill samples from 36 individual fish were analyzed using energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF). The results revealed that the average quantities of heavy metals in both fishes' muscle followed the declining order of Zn (109.41-119.93 mg/kg) > Cu (45.52-65.43 mg/kg) > Hg (1.25-1.39 mg/kg) > Pb (0.68-1.12 mg/kg) > Cr (0.31-5.82 mg/kg). Furthermore, Zn was found to be present in the highest concentration within the gills of both species. While the levels of Cu, Zn, and Cr in the fish muscle were deemed acceptable for human consumption, the concentrations of Pb and Hg exceeded the permissible limits (>0.5 mg/kg) for human consumption. Different risk indices, including estimated daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotient (THQ), hazard index (HI), and carcinogenic or target risk (TR), revealed mixed and varying degrees of potential threat to human health. According to the EDI values, individuals consuming these fish may face health risks as the levels of Zn, Cu, and Cr in the muscle are either very close to or exceed the maximum tolerable daily intake (MTDI) threshold. Nevertheless, the THQ and HI values suggested that both species remained suitable for human consumption, as indicated by THQ (<1) and HI (<1) values. Carcinogenic risk values for Pb, Cr, and Zn all remained within permissible limits, with TR values falling below the range of (10-6 to 10-4), except for Zn, which exceeded it (>10-4). The correlation matrix and multivariate principal component analysis (PCA) findings revealed that Pb and Cr primarily stemmed from natural geological backgrounds, whereas Zn, Cu, and Hg were attributed to human-induced sources such as agricultural chemicals, silver nanoparticles, antimicrobial substances, and metallic plating. Given the significance of fish as a crucial and nutritious element of a balanced diet, it is essential to maintain consistent monitoring and regulation of the levels and origins of heavy metals found within it.

Assessment of cooking methods and freezing on the nutritional value and health risks of heavy metals in four fish species consumed in Douala, Cameroon

The effects of smoking, boiling and freezing on the nutritional value and health risks of heavy metals in four fish species consumed in Douala was investigated. Fish samples from Cyprinus carpio, Arius parkii, Ethmalosa fimbriata and Polydactilis quadrifilis were collected at the Douala Fishing seaport, carried to the laboratory, washed with distilled water and processed. Proximate composition, mineral content, heavy metals and lipid quality were analyzed using AOAC standard methods. Estimated Daily Intake (EDI), Targeted Hazard Quotient (THQ), Hazard Index (HI) and Carcinogenic Risk (CR) were used to estimate the human health risk. Results showed that smoking and boiling increased significantly (P < 0.05) protein and ash levels. Lipid were reduced significantly (P < 0.05) with boiling and freezing compared to raw and smoked sample. Smoking increased significantly (P < 0.05) cadmium, lead, mercury and arsenic contents compared to boiling and freezing. EDI values of cadmium in all species of fish smoked were not acceptable for human consumption. THQ values of mercury in raw, smoked, boiled and frozen were not acceptable for human consumption. HI suggested a non potential carcinogenic effect for all fish while CR for cadmium and arsenic suggested a carcinogenic health risk for Arius parkii (smoked and boiled). All treatment decreased significantly (P < 0.05) iodine value and increased acid, peroxide, anisidine values, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and total oxidation index compared to raw fish. Boiling was the best cooking method compared to smoking.

Mercury risk assessment scenarios: exposure from fish dietary behaviors of Katingan River Basin community

ABSTRACT Katingan River has been contaminated by mercury from ASGM activities since the early 2000s. This study aims to assess the risk of mercury exposure from Katingan fish consumption and analyze relationships between exposure variables. We proposed two risk assessment scenarios based on mercury analysis of 74 fish samples and fish consumption questionnaire. The risk assessment result revealed that estimated daily intakes (EDIs) of Scenario 2 were generally 3–4 times higher than Scenario 1. The statistical test results showed significant differences (p < 0.05) in EDI values between scenarios, indicating that variations in fish consumption influenced the mercury intake. Three different health reference-based values (HRVs) were applied in estimating the hazard quotient (HQ) and it influenced the HQ results (p < 0.05), for both scenarios. The relationship analysis between variables presented a strong non-linear correlation between EDI and hair mercury level for both scenarios, but a weak relationship between age and hair mercury level.

Detection, distribution, and health risk assessment of heavy metals in wild catfish sold in Maiduguri Metropolis of Borno State, Northeastern Nigeria

Heavy metals (HMs) are naturally occurring elements with high atomic weights and a density at least five times greater than water. HMs can be released into the soil, water, and air through industrial, domestic, agricultural run-offs, medical and technological activities. Thirty wild fresh catfish were bought from two major fish markets in Maiduguri (Custom and Monday markets). Zinc (Zn) and Arsenic (As) were determined by Atomic Absorption spectrophotometer. Data obtained were analyzed using descriptivestatistics and independent sample t-tests. The estimated daily intake (EDI) of the metals was calculated, and the target cancer risk (TCR), target hazard quotient (THQ), and hazard index (HI) was derived. The mean concentration (mg/Kg ± SD) of Zn in the liver (0.26 ± 0.32) was higher compared to that in muscle (0.22 ± 0.27), but this was not statistically different (t (58) = 0.608, p = 0.545). However, the mean concentration of As in the liver (0.27 ± 0.33) was lower compared to that in the muscle (0.28 ± 0.23), but this was not statistically different (t (52) = -0.003, p = 0.997). Although, no significant statistical difference, the mean concentration ranking of Zn based on the Fish market was Monday market &gt; custom market, while that of As was custom market &gt; Monday market. EDI values were within tolerable limits. TCR, THQ, and HI values obtained were below the threshold of 1. In conclusion, HMs (Zn and As) were detected in the liver and muscle of all fish samples tested at a lower rate compared to their Maximum Permissible Limits (MPLs) set by the World Health Organization (WHO). However, because of their non-degradable nature and tendency to bio-accumulate in fish tissues and organs, it can be concluded that long-term consumption poses a greater Public Health risk of HMs intoxications in the study area. Therefore, fish consumers should be enlightened more about the harmful effects of HM toxicity by relevant health authorities.

Potential Health Hazards of Consuming Lutjanus Goreensis from Coastal Waters in the Niger Delta Contaminated with Toxic Metals

This study investigates the health risks associated with trace elements in Gorean snapper (Lutjanus goreensis) from Buguma Creek, Southern Nigeria. Fish samples were collected monthly from May to August 2023, and muscle tissues were analyzed for potential health risks posed by elevated levels of hazardous metals. The concentrations of various heavy metals (Fe, Zn, Pb, Cd, Cu, and As) in Gorean Snapper collected from different locations (Station 1, Station 2, and Station 3) were measured in milligrams per kilogram (mg/Kg) of fish tissue. Results revealed varying metal concentrations across stations, with notable differences in Fe, Zn, Pb, Cd, Cu, and As levels. The Estimated Daily Intake (EDI) values for Cadmium (Cd) were relatively low for both adults and children across all three stations. However, Lead (Pb) and Arsenic (As) exhibited low EDI values, while Zinc (Zn) showed significantly higher values, especially at Station 3. The Hazard Quotient (HQ) and Hazard Index (HI) results indicated potential health risks associated with Zinc exposure, particularly at Station 3, for both adults and children. Carcinogenic Risk (CR) analysis revealed potential health risks associated with long-term exposure to Cadmium for adults. The CR values for Lead and Arsenic fell within acceptable ranges. This study raises concerns about potential health risks associated with the consumption of L. goreensis from Buguma and recommends the continuous monitoring of heavy metal concentrations, public awareness programs, further research, collaboration among stakeholders, and the implementation of best practices in aquaculture and fisheries management to reduce heavy metal concentrations in fish.

Primary aromatic amines (PAAs) in third-hand smoke collected from waterpipe/cigarette cafés: Level and exposure assessment

Third-hand smoke (THS) has been recognized as a main exposure route to the chemical content of tobacco products. In the present study, potential exposure of people to primary aromatic amines (PAAs) release from indoor settled dusts in smoking and non-smoking cafés were studied for the first time. Nine compounds of PAAs in the indoor dust samples of waterpipe, cigarettes and non-smoking cafés in Bushehr were measured by using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The mean concentration levels of ∑PAAs released through settled indoor dusts of waterpipe, cigarettes and non-smoking cafés were 728.23, 331.37 and 66.11 ng g−1, respectively. The results showed that the mean concentration levels of ∑PAAs were ranked as: waterpipe cafés ˃ cigarette cafés ˃ non-smoking cafés. Among the measured PAAs, aniline (ANL) and 2, 6-dimethylaniline (2, 6-DMA) have the highest levels. The findings also showed that the levels of PAAs had a negative and significant relationship (P < 0.05) with “the ventilation rate”, “number of window/doors”, and “café area”, but a positive and significant relationship with “the number of active smokers” and “the time from last painting” (P < 0.05). The estimated daily intake (EDI) of PAAs in settled indoor dusts for different age groups (infants, toddlers, children, teenagers, and adults) were ranged from 52.5 to 3832.8 ng kg−1-bw day−1, and EDI value for toddlers was higher than others groups. Although all obtained EDI values were lower than acceptable exposure values recommended by World Health Organization (WHO) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), but chronic exposure can be harmful to health. Hence, more comprehensive studies are needed to evaluate different chemical contents and potential health effects of THS.

Metals bioaccumulation in fish captured from Araguari River upper section (Amazon biome), and risk assessment to human health resulting from their consumption

BackgroundThe Araguari River is one of the most important rivers from Amapá State and its waters are essential as source of drinking water and food, especially for the traditional Amazonian populations. These populations have fish as their main protein source; however, studies have shown the metals bioaccumulation in fish caught in the Araguari River and the risks to human health resulting from fish consumption. Our objective was to investigate the bioaccumulation of Cd, Pb, Cr, Ni, Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn, and Hg in muscle tissue from the fish species Ageneiosus inermis and Hoplias aimara, and to evaluate the risks to human health resulting from their consumption. MethodsFish sampling was carried out between September and October 2018 at two sampling sites located in the Araguari River upper section. The metal concentrations quantification was performed by Atomic Absorption Spectrometry, except for Hg whose concentrations were determined using a hydride generator coupled to Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry. For risk assessment of each metal individually we use the risk quotient (RQ) approach. To assess the risk of metal mixtures, present in fish muscle samples, we used the risk index (RI) approach. We also calculate the estimated daily intake (EDI). ResultsThere was no statistical difference in the bioaccumulation of metals between both fish species. Only Cd and Pb presented average concentrations higher than the maximum limits established by Brazilian legislation aimed at protecting human health. The RI values obtained for both fish species were > 25, which indicates high risks to human health. The EDI values obtained for Hg in both fish species exceeded their reference dose (RfD). Taken together, our results show that these fish species are unfit for consumption. ConclusionsBased on our results we recommend that the population does not consume the species A. inermis and H. aimara. When suspending consumption of both species is not possible, reducing their consumption is mandatory to reduce the exposure of human populations to toxic metals bioaccumulated in fish muscle tissue and thus reduce health risks.

Levels of organic pollutants and metals/metalloids in infant formula marketed in Brazil: Risks to early-life health

Infant formula intake is recommended to ensure comprehensive nutritional and caloric fulfillment when exclusive breastfeeding is not possible. However, similarly to breast milk, infant formulas may also contain pollutants capable of inducing endocrine-disrupting and neurotoxic effects. Thus, considering the sensitivity of their developing physiological systems and that infants have heightened susceptibility to environmental influences, this study was aimed at assessing the contents of essential elements, and inorganic and organic pollutants in infant formulas marketed in Brazil. Additionally, health risk assessments for selected contaminants were also performed. Measured contents of essential elements (Ca, Fe, Mg, Mn, Cu, Se, and Zn) were congruent with label information. Nevertheless, some toxic elements (Pb, Cd, As, Ni, and Al) were also detected. Notably, in the upper-bound scenario, Pb and Cd surpassed established threshold values when comparing the estimated daily intake (EDI) and tolerable daily intake (TDI – 3.57 and 0.36 μg/kg bw, respectively). Bisphenol P (BPP) and benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP) were frequently detected (84 % detection rate both) with elevated contents (BPP median = 4.28 ng/g and BBP median = 0.24 ng/g). Furthermore, a positive correlation (0.41) was observed between BPP and BBP, implying a potential co-occurrence within packaging materials. Methyl-paraben also correlated positively with BBP (0.57), showing a detection rate of 53 %. The cumulative PBDE contents ranged from 0.33 to 1.62 ng/g, with BDE-154 and BDE-47 the dominant congeners. When comparing EDI values with TDIs, all organic pollutants remained below the thresholds across all exposure scenarios. Moreover, non-carcinogenic risks were below the threshold (HQ > 1) when dividing the EDIs by the respective reference doses for chronic exposure. While the current findings may suggest that infant formula intake poses no immediate risk in terms of the evaluated chemicals, it remains imperative to conduct further research to safeguard the health of infants considering other chemicals, as well as their potential cumulative effects.

Impacts of Some Trace Metals in Cyprinus carpio (Linnaeus,1758) and Tor soro (Valenciennes, 1842) on Human Health.

Although fish are rich sources of various trace metals in their bodies, when these metals exceed health safety limits, it becomes a global concern. Fish exposed to trace metal pollution in their aquatic ecosystems can lead to bioaccumulation and transfer to consumers. Monitoring trace metal contamination of fish food is crucial because they can reach humans through the aquatic food chain, resulting in health problems. Therefore, a first attempt was made for the analysis of trace metals in two cyprinid fish species, namely Cyprinus carpio (Common carp) and Tor soro (Mahseer), which were abundantly found in Khanozai Dam and assessing their potential health impacts when consumed by humans. A total of 200 fish specimens were collected from this area. These specimens were divided equally between the two carp species, with 100 individuals from each species. The fish specimens were collected over 12months, from June 2020 to May 2021 to determine the concentration of some trace metals, i.e. Manganese (Mn), Calcium (Ca), Iron (Fe), Potassium (K), and Zinc (Zn), Sodium (Na), Phosphorus (P), Magnesium (Mg), and Chlorine (Cl) using a Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer with a multi-element hollow cathode lamp. The obtained results from the trace metal analysis of Cyprinus carpio and Tor soro in this study revealed that both calcium and phosphorus were present in higher concentrations. However, iron, manganese, and zinc were not detected in both species. Additionally, magnesium was also not detected in C. carpio. For Cyprinus carpio, the arrangement was Ca > P > K > Na > Cl, while for Tor soro, it was Ca > P > Na > K > Cl > Mg in decreasing order. The health risks associated with fish consumption were assessed using factors like estimated daily intake (EDI), Target Hazard Quotient (THQ), and Total Target Hazard Quotient (TTHQ). The THQ values for all analyzed trace metals in both carp species exceeded the maximum value of 1.0, except for Cl in Tor soro. This suggests the potential for various health-related diseases in regular consumers due to their elevated levels. In both species, the TTHQ factor also surpassed the standard value of 1.0, indicating an acute health risk for humans. Although EDI values did not surpass the recommended daily allowance (RDA), continuous consumption of these contaminated fish from this area could lead to severe health complications. Therefore, these results strongly indicated that the elevated levels of trace metals found in the highly abundant cyprinid species of Khanozai Dam could pose serious health-related issues for the local inhabitants.

Effect of different irrigation methods on the toxicity and bioavailability of microcystin-LR to lettuce and carrot.

The use of cyanobacteria-polluted water for irrigation has become an increasing concern due to the potential contamination of microcystins (MCs). However, the effects of MCs on plant performance and food safety under different irrigation methods are not well understood. In this study, we investigated the effects of microcystin-LR (MC-LR) on the growth, food quality, and safety of lettuce and carrot using four irrigation methods (spray irrigation and three types of drip irrigation with different distances from the plant stem). Our results showed that exposure to 10 μg L-1 MC-LR negatively affected plant growth and food quality in treatments with spray irrigation (TS) and drip irrigation directly to the stem (TD0), but not in treatments with drip irrigation away from the plant stem (TD10 and TD20). Using soil as a filtration system, the bioavailability of MC-LR in soil was reduced in TD10 and TD20, resulting in less bioaccumulation in plant edible tissues. The estimated daily intake (EDI) values of TS and TD0 in both lettuce and carrot cultivation exceeded the tolerable daily intake (TDI) limit proposed by WHO, whereas the EDI values of TD10 and TD20 could be effectively reduced below the TDI limit. This study highlights the importance of drip irrigation away from the plant stem as a practical measure to mitigate the effects of cyanobacteria-polluted water in agricultural production.

Cadmium, chromium, nickel and lead content of fish and vegetables from selected dams in Osun State, Nigeria

Potentially Toxic Elements (PTEs) in foods are a threat to global health. This study investigated concentrations of selected PTEs; cadmium, chromium, nickel and lead in fish and cultivated vegetables from and along the dams, respectively. Totally, 84 samples; 60 Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), 12 Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) and 12 Bitter leaf (Vernonia amygdalina) obtained from six dams in Southwestern Nigeria were digested using aqua-regia. Elemental quantification with Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer and validation via recovery test (97.1–100%), linearity (R2 ≥ 0.997) and limit of detection (LOD) (0.01–0.18 mg kg-1) were done. The PTEs concentrations in the two vegetables did not maximum exceed the permissible levels, except for Pb. In fish samples, PTEs concentrations were > maximum permissible levels and ranged from 1.18 to 2.31, 3.15–3.92, 0.41–14.2 and 2.36–3.73 mg kg-1 for Cr, Ni, Cd and Pb respectively. Human health risk assessment revealed the Estimated Daily Intake (EDI) values for consumption of Tilapia by children for Pb and Cd were > Tolerable Daily Intake (TDI) while for adults, higher EDI values were for Pb. Conclusively, non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic assessment results reveal that consumption of tilapia, okra and bitter leaf from these dams is not safe.

Ecological risk assessment of selected contaminants in seawater, sediment and some fish species from Alexandria beaches, South-Eastern Mediterranean Sea, Egypt

The present study aims to investigate the hydrographical characteristics, nutrient salts, and heavy metals (HM) to estimate the contamination status of selected coastal beaches along the Alexandria coastal area in the southeast Mediterranean Sea. Water and sediment samples were collected from 8 beaches along the cost of Alexandria, while 122 fish samples representing 10 species were collected from 2 beaches representing two ports at Alexandria city. All samples were subjected to specific analyses to assessment of ecological risks at study area. The study indicated that the seawater quality of the investigated beaches varied between medium to good based on the Water Quality Index (WQI = 0.233–0.713). Moreover, the highest average concentration in water was observed for Fe (33.624 μgl−1) and the lowest was detected for Cd (0.050 μgl−1). HM in sediment have the same trend of these HM in water. The most of beaches’ sediments were classified as non-contaminated (PI < 1) with all examined HM. Hazard Quotient and Hazard Index (HQ &HI < 1) this indicated that the lack of non-carcinogenic impacts for children and adults due to dermal contact with sediments of all beaches. The most abundance HM in fish were Fe and Zn. Bioaccumulation factors (BAF) in fish muscles was evaluated. MPI (Metal Pollution Index) of HM in the investigated species ranged from (0.381–2.216) in Pomatomus saltatrix and Scomberomorus commerson species respectively. HQ, HI, EDI (Estimated Daily Intake), and TR (Target Risk) values showed that the examined species are still safe for human consumption.

Evaluation of metal pollution related to human health risk in freshwater snail Viviparus contectus (Millet, 1813) as a potential bioindicator species in Lake Habitat (Turkey).

Freshwater mollusks are employed as bioindicators for the assessment of water quality in biomonitoring studies since the water quality of natural resources is crucial for humans. The freshwater snail species known as Viviparus contectus (Viviparidae: Gastropoda) is one that people eat. Here, the levels of heavy metals (Cd, Cr, Pb, As, Zn, and Cu) in water and V. contectus samples were determined. An Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrometer (ICP-AES, Spectro Arcos, vertical plasma) was used for the analysing the heavy metal concentrations in water and freshwater snail samples. The results of the current investigation demonstrated that freshwater snails accumulated metals in their water and soft tissues in the following orders: Pb > Cr = Zn = Cu = Cd = As and Zn > Cu > Pb > Cd > As = Cr. Autumn was the time of year when higher amounts of heavy metals (As, Cr, Cu, Zn, and Hg) were found. Pb content in the freshwater snail samples was strongly impacted by seasonal fluctuations (P 0.05). For adults, the EDI (estimated daily intake) values were lower than the TDI (tolerable daily intake) values, and the HI (hazard index) values were below 1. Freshwater snail samples had Zn and Pb levels that were over the FAO/WHO, Turkish Food Codex, JECFA, and EC limit values. Except for Pb, the water study shows mean metal concentrations below the USEPA, Turkish Pollution Control Regulation, and World Health Organisation maximum allowed levels. Aquatic ecosystems were negatively impacted by anthropogenic activities overall, and this study can provide a helpful data set for investigations on metallic contamination in water bodies and biomonitoring in freshwater ecosystems.

Breastmilk cadmium levels and estimated infant exposure: a multicenter study of associated factors in a resource-limited country

BackgroundDespite the undisputed benefits of breastfeeding, infants might become exposed to xenobiotics that could be excreted into breast milk following maternal exposure. This study was conducted to assess breastmilk cadmium levels among lactating women in Palestine, a resource-limited country. Estimated daily intake (EDI) of cadmium via breastmilk was also calculated and predictors of high breastmilk cadmium levels and high infant exposure via breastmilk were identified.MethodsThis multicenter study was conducted using a descriptive-analytical design. The lactating women were recruited from different maternity and public health clinics in all regions of Palestine. Demographic variables and exposure to sources of cadmium were collected in an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Foremilk samples (about 5 mL) were collected in polyethylene tubes using the hand-expression technique. The breast milk samples were collected in the period between December 2020 and March 2021. A pre-validated method using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) was used to quantify breastmilk cadmium levels. EDI values were calculated from the quantified breastmilk cadmium levels.ResultsBreastmilk samples were obtained from 256 lactating women. The mean breastmilk cadmium level was 0.34 (SD: 0.33) μg / L and the mean EDI of cadmium via breastmilk was 0.059 (SD: 0.058) µg / kg per body weight / day. Breastmilk cadmium levels were quantified in 92.6% of the breastmilk samples. Of the breastmilk samples, 13 (5.1%) had cadmium levels above those reported as “normal” by the World Health Organization (WHO). Multiple linear regression showed that higher breastmilk cadmium levels and higher EDI were predicted by being a smoker, living in a refugee camp, living close to an industrial area, living close to disposal of wastes, living close to paint shops, living in a house with peeling / chipping paint, frequent use of cosmetics, frequent use of hair dyes, and not using vitamins.ConclusionThe breastmilk cadmium levels and infant exposure were predicted by maternal exposure to sources of cadmium. The findings reported in this study are valuable to antenatal and postnatal healthcare service providers. More studies are needed to plan and implement measures to reduce breastmilk cadmium levels and infants’ exposure to cadmium via breastmilk.

The occurrence of doxycycline residue in raw dairy milk from Malang and Padang Panjang, Indonesia

Antibiotic residue in milk has a negative impact on human health. The objective of this study was to determine the presence of doxycycline residues in fresh dairy milk and to evaluate its dietary intake to Indonesian population through milk consumption. Ninety milk samples were collected from the District of Malang (East Java Province) and sixty-six milk samples from Padang Panjang City (West Sumatera Province). All samples were analyzed for doxycycline residue using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The estimated daily intake (EDI) was determined by multiplying the mean concentration of antibiotics and the average daily milk consumption dividing it by the weight of population target. The occurrence of doxycycline residue obtained in raw milk samples was 36.67% for samples from Malang and 12.12% for samples from Padang Panjang. The range and average concentration for doxycycline residue in milk samples were 44.8-557.2 ng/g and 203.0 ng/g for samples from Malang and 14.2-64.5 ng/g and 30.1 ng/g for samples from Padang Panjang, respectively. Samples from Malang shows the highest EDI values of doxycycline both for adult, and children population and demonstrated the toxicological risk of consumption doxycycline together with the present other types or groups of antibiotics residue in milk or other types of foods. The results obtained show that, to prevent the negative effects of antibiotic residues on human health, the presence of antibiotic residues in raw dairy milk still needs to be monitored regularly.

Probabilistic non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risk assessments of potential toxic metals (PTMs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in canned foods in Nigeria: understanding the size of the problem

The purpose of the study was to determine the concentrations of potential toxic metals (PTMs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in 20 canned food samples (fish, meat, vegetable, non-alcoholic drink and beverage) sold in markets of Port Harcourt city (Nigeria) and to assess their potential human health risks (non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic). The methodology comprised the Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (GFAAS) analysis of metals and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis of PAHs, and then the calculation of the estimated daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotient (THQ) and cancer risk (CR) in adults and children. Results showed that the EDI values for As, Cd, Cu, and Pb from consumption of canned foods were below the provisional tolerable daily/provisional tolerable weekly intakes (PTDI/PTWI), and for Fe and Zn below the recommended daily intake (RDI), in both adults and children. The EDI value for B[a]P from consumption of canned foods was less than the PTWI value in both adults and children. Whilst the individual THQ values of metals were less than 1, the ∑THQ values were higher than 1 thus indicating a potential health risk arising from consumption of canned foods containing a mixture of metals. Moreover, the CR values by individual carcinogenic metals indicated a priority risk in both adults and children for As (mean, 2.43E-02 and 9.73E-03) and Cd (mean, 6.03E-03 and 1.95E-03), while the risk was acceptable for PAHs exposure (2.13E-09). In addition, the total CR (TCR), which was used to assess the effects of multiple carcinogenic metals, ranged from 1.24E-02 to 6.237E-02 indicating a carcinogenic risk for adults and children. In conclusion, the consumption of canned foods by Nigerian community can bring about worst health risks due to the residual concentration of PTMs in these products and the health hazard associated with them.

Health risk assessment of some selected heavy metals in infant food sold in Wa, Ghana

Infants remain a high-risk group as far as exposure to toxic metals is concerned. The levels of lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), nickel (Ni), chromium (Cr), antimony (Sb), mercury (Hg), and arsenic (As) in twenty-two (22) samples of baby foods and formulas were determined using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The concentrations in (mg/kg) of As, Cd, Cr, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Sb were in the ranges 0.006–0.057, 0.043–0.064, 0.113–0.33, 0.000–0.002, 1.720–3.568, 0.065–0.183, 0.061–0.368 and 0.017–0.1 respectively. Health risk assessment indices like the Estimated Daily Intake (EDI), Target Hazard Quotient (THQ), Cancer Risk (CR) and Hazard Index (HI) were calculated. EDI values of Hg, Cr, and As were below their recommended tolerable daily intake, that of Ni and Mn were lower in 95% of samples, and Cd was also lower in 50% of the samples. THQ values for As, Cd, Cr, Hg, Mn, Ni, and Pb were 0.32–3.21, 0.75–1.10, 0.65–1.94, 0.00–0.37, 0.21–0.44, 0.08–0.12 and 0.26–1.13 respectively. The CR values were greater than 10−6, making them unacceptable for human consumption. HI values were between 2.68 and 6.83 (greater than 1), which implied that these metals are likely to pose non-carcinogenic health risks to infants.