Target Hazard Quotient Research Articles

Heavy Metal Biomonitoring in Cultured Rainbow Trout of the Black Sea and Risk Estimations on Its Consumption.

In recent years, the growing importance of fish species obtained through aquaculture, coupled with a decline in wild-caught fish, has raised concerns about the potential accumulation of pollutants in these fish. This work aimed to analyze the amounts of elements in trout cultured mainly between Sinop and Samsun shores at the south of the Black Sea and marketed in Sinop fish markets. The comparison of these values with national and internationally accepted regulations was conducted, and evaluation of health risks for consumers was performed. Oncorhynchus mykiss samples were bought in April, May, and June of 2022 and 2023. The heavy metal concentrations were determined using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Fish tissues were wet digested in Teflon vessels. The outcomes were contrasted with established regulatory limits for heavy metals in fish. Fortunately, the metal concentrations detected in the fillets were found to be below the permissible levels set by regulations, indicating that the fish were not significantly contaminated. Furthermore, the estimated daily intake (EDI) and target hazard quotient (THQ) values, which are utilized to evaluate the possible health risks connected with heavy metal exposure, were calculated. It was reassuring to find that both EDI and THQ values were below the acceptable thresholds, suggesting that the consumption of O. mykiss is not likely to pose a threat to human health. To preserve seafood safety and safeguard public health, however, constant monitoring of fish metal levels is necessary.

Quality Parameters of Plum Orchard Subjected to Conventional and Ecological Management Systems in Temperate Production Area

Environmental protection, global food security, and nutritional quality are critical issues for worldwide sustainable development. Plums (Prunus domestica L.), well-known for their rich nutritional content and distinct phytochemical profile, have received increased attention due to their potential health benefits. The present study evaluates the ecological and conventional management systems of quality parameters in three plum varieties—Tuleu Gras, Record, and Centenar—and establishes suitable practices to improve fruit quality and yields. The fruit morphometric features (color, firmness, soluble solid content, titratable acidity, and total sugar) were analyzed during their raw fruit state, while different fruit-sample extracts were assessed for phytochemical compounds and heavy metal concentrations, specifically, zinc, copper, nickel, and cadmium. The results show a wide variability in the examined characteristics among management practices that differentially accumulated throughout the ripening phase and significantly influenced the nutritional value of the plum fruit. The application of an ecological management practice yielded small plum fruits (38 g) and maintained a more consistent and vigorous fruit color compared with the conventional system (83 g). Moreover, ecological plums have higher antioxidant activities, total polyphenols, and flavonoids (21.70–25.54 µM Trolox/g of dw, 3.89–7.76 mg GAE/ g of dw, and 1.45–3.65 mg CE/g of dw, respectively). Among the content of metals in the plum fruit, copper exhibited the highest concentrations (0.83–1.21 mg/kg), while cadmium was detected at the lowest levels (0.006–0.009 mg/kg). The potential health implications of heavy metals, by calculating their estimated daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotient (THQ), and hazard index (HI), for both adults and children were also analyzed. The EDI values of accumulated elements in the plum fruits followed the order of Cu > Zn > Ni > Cd with no concern for human health (THQ and HI < 1). According to this study’s findings, fruit quality parameters are significantly higher in ecological plums, providing a compelling argument for adopting sustainable agricultural practices. These results highlight the importance of selecting sustainable agricultural practices, not only to safeguard the environment but also to ensure high-quality products suitable for human consumption.

Assessment and bioaccumulation of heavy metal contaminants in Golden Mahseer (Tor putitora Hamilton, 1822)

Unpolluted freshwater is a crucial component for maintaining the health of humans. This study aimed to investigate the bioaccumulation and potential health hazards of heavy metal contaminants (Fe, Cd, Cr, Cu, Pb) in water, sediments, and tissues of the golden mahseer fish (Tor putitora) from Zhob River to assess their suitability for human consumption. Samples (soil, water, and fish) were collected from the Zhob River, and Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (FAAS) was employed to measure the concentration of these metals found in soil, water, and various fish body tissues (muscles, skin, gills, and liver). The overall results revealed that water quality parameters, i.e., temperature and pH were found within tolerable ranges, while electrical conductivity and turbidity exceeded the permissible limits of FAO/WHO for fish. Furthermore, this study also identified elevated concentrations of Pb in water and soil, as well as Fe and Cd in soil beyond the standards set by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). In contrast, the concentrations of other targeted metals examined in fish body tissues were found below the permissible limits set by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO), indicating the suitability of this fish species for human consumption. The estimated daily intake (EDI) of these targeted metals in various fish body tissues was found to be within the recommended dietary allowance (RDA), suggesting no associated health risks for the local population. Furthermore, both the Target Hazard Quotient (THQ) and Total Target Hazard Quotient (TTHQ) values measured in this study were less than one, indicating the absence of potential non-carcinogenic health risks related to the consumption of this riverine mahseer fish, but combined metal intake may pose potential health risks. Carcinogenic risk assessment for some metals like Cd, Cr, and Pb revealed no cancer risk for consumers. Moreover, our present research observed comparatively high bioaccumulation (BAF) of each targeted metal in the fish liver from both Zhob River water and soil as compared to other body tissues. Multivariate analysis, including the correlation matrix, revealed strong and significant correlations (P < 0.05) among heavy metal pairs (Fe/Cr, Fe/Pb, Cr/Fe, Cr/Pb, Pb/Fe, Pb/Cr). Hierarchical cluster analysis and Principal Component Analysis (PCA) were utilized to trace the origins of these metals, attributing their presence to nearby rock weathering, mining, as well as municipal and agricultural activities. These factors were recognized as potential sources of heavy metal bioaccumulation in riverine fish. Thus, our current study concluded that the Zhob River was contaminated with these heavy metals and emphasized the need to prevent domestic and industrial sewage inflow. The monitoring of these metals in the food chain was also underscored as crucial for reducing all kinds of associated health risks. This study provides the first report on heavy metal distribution in highly abundant and edible mahseer fishes of the Zhob River.

Risk assessment of As, Cd, Cr, and Pb via the consumption of seafood in Haikou

In order to mitigate the risk of excessive heavy metal intake, a study was conducted to assess the levels of arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), and lead (Pb) contamination in 23 edible seafood species obtained from markets in Haikou. The findings were analyzed to evaluate the potential health hazards posed to the local population through consumption. The metals were detected via inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) for quantification. The non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic health risks in humans were assessed via target hazard quotient (THQ), combined target hazard quotient (CTHQ), and target cancer risk (TR). The results indicated that the rank order based on the median metal concentration was As > Cd > Cr > Pb. THQ and CTHQ showed that nine seafood species posed a non-carcinogenic risk regarding from As and Cd consumption separately, or the four targeted metals ingestion together. TR assessment indicated that the InAs in all the species presented a carcinogenic risk to coastal residents. The Cd content in bivalves, algae, and several crustacean (Mantis Shrimp, Orchid Crab, Red spot Swimming Crab) and fish species (Japanese Scad, Pacific Saury), and Cr levels in most bivalve species (Razor Clams, White Clams, Fan Shells, Oysters, Blood Clams) presented a carcinogenic risk. The As, Cd, Pb, and Cr levels of seafood in Haikou were assessed species presented a potential health risk. Necessitating stricter risk should be management and detection capability and monitoring will be improved.

Health risk assessment of potentially toxic elements in minerals-fortified milk and young child formula in Brazil

Exposure to potentially toxic elements above certain limits can cause adverse effects on human health, with young children being the most vulnerable. Then, the aim of this study was to determine, by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), the concentration of potentially toxic elements (Al, As, Cd, Hg, Ni, Pb, Sn, Ti, and U) in minerals-fortified milk (MFM) and young child formula (YCF) commercialized in Brazil and recommended for children aged 1–3 years. High concentrations (mg kg−1) were found in MFM and YCF, respectively, for Ti (21.1–23.7 and 8.62–25.7), Al (0.59–4.69 and 0.23–4.92), and Ni (0.66–2.89 and 1.09–1.59). Total As concentrations varied from 0.02 to 0.07 mg kg−1, Pb, Sn, Cd, and U were present at low concentrations and Hg was not detected in any sample. The target hazard quotient (THQ) and the target carcinogenic risk (TCR) were also determined, and almost all the THQ values were found below 1, except for Ni, indicating potential risk to children in two of the brands analyzed. The concentrations determined for total As were worrying because, if it was inorganic form, all analyzed samples would represent health and cancer risk, indicating the urgent need for updated protocols for As speciation and food monitoring in the Brazilian market. Thus, controlling the processing and increasing the monitoring of these products is essential to avoid adverse effects on children’s health in the short and long term.

Development and validation of a green analytical method for determining fourteen bisphenols in bee pollen by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry

A new analytical method was developed and validated to determine fourteen bisphenols (A, B, C, E, F, M, P, S, Z, AF, AP, BP, FL, PH) in bee pollen using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Two different sample treatments were proposed and evaluated: one based on the QuEChERS (quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged & safe) approach and the other utilizing microextraction with a supramolecular solvent (SUPRAS). In both cases, average analyte recovery ranged between 71 % and 114 %, and the matrix effect was between −45 % and +5 %, although it was not significant when using the QuEChERS-based method (<±20 %). The environmental impact of both sample treatments was assessed using different analytical metrics, with both procedures classified as environmentally friendly, though slightly better results were obtained for SUPRAS. The method was fully validated, showing that the QuEChERS approach had better overall performance, particularly regarding sensitivity and matrix effect. Consequently, the QuEChERS methodology was applied to determine bisphenols in thirty bee pollen samples from different Spanish regions. Residues of three bisphenols (M, P, and S) were detected, although only bisphenol S was quantified in several samples at low concentration levels (<7 μg kg−1), which is below the established specific migration limit (SML; 50 μg kg−1). However, regarding human health, the estimated daily intake, target hazard quotient, and hazard index assessed were higher than acceptable limits, suggesting a potential risk for human consumers.

Total arsenic and arsenic species in selected seafoods: Analysis using high-performance liquid chromatography- inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and health risk assessment

The objective of the present study was to determine the inorganic and organic arsenic species and assess the actual risk of selected seafood produced in Sri Lanka in terms of inorganic arsenic species. A total of 80 samples, comprising 75 seafood samples and 5 freshwater samples, including mollusks, echinoderms, and crustaceans, were analyzed for their total arsenic (TA) levels and arsenic species. TA levels in seafood were determined using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) after microwave digestion. Arsenic species, including arsenobetaine (AsB), arsenite (AsIII), arsenate (AsV), monomethylarsonic acid (MMA), and dimethylarsinic acid (DMA), were selectively separated and quantified using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) coupled to ICP-MS, following water bath extraction with 30 mmol/L nitric acid. The TA levels in seafood ranged from 0.036 to 11.686 mg kg-1. The spike recovery values for the five arsenic species lay within 80 % to 120 %, and the chromatographic recovery percentages ranged from 85.5 % to 123.6 %. In most samples, 100 % AsB was detected. Sea cucumber and both marine and freshwater giant river prawns showed AsB percentages of the total arsenicals at 83.2 %, 39.7 %, and 21.3 %, respectively. DMA was found in sea cucumber and marine giant river prawn at levels of 0.065 mg kg-1 and 0.048 mg kg-1, respectively, while MMA was not detected in any samples. AsIII was found in marine water giant river prawn and freshwater giant river prawn at levels of 0.010 mg kg-1 and 0.044 mg kg-1, respectively. AsV was only found in marine giant river prawn at a concentration of 0.193 mg kg-1. No other samples contained detectable levels of inorganic arsenicals. The Target Hazard Quotient (THQ) values for marine and freshwater giant river prawn were 0.90 and 0.2, respectively, indicating no significant health risks since the THQ values were <1. Therefore, our study suggests that consuming the studied seafood does not pose any health risks in terms of arsenic.

The fate and impact of Co3O4 nanoparticles in the soil environment: Observing the dose effect of nanoparticles on soybeans

The widespread presence and distribution of metal-based nanoparticles (NPs) in soil is threatening crop growth and food security. However, little is known about the fate of Co3O4 NPs in the soil-soybean system and their phytotoxicity. The study demonstrated the effects of Co3O4 NPs on soybean growth and yield in soil after 60 days and 140 days, and compared them with the phytotoxic effects of Co2+. The results showed that Co3O4 NPs (10–500 mg/kg) had no significant toxic effect on soybeans. Soil available Co content was significantly increased under 500 mg/kg Co3O4 NPs treatment. Compared with Co2+, Co3O4 NPs mainly accumulated in roots and had limited transport to the shoots, which was related to the particle size, surface charge and chemical stability of Co3O4 NPs. The significant accumulation of Co3O4 NPs in roots further led to a significant decrease in root antioxidant enzyme activity and changes in functional gene expression. Co3O4 NPs reduced soybean yield after 140 days, but interestingly, at specific doses, it increased grain nutrients (Fe content increased by 17.38% at 100 mg/kg, soluble protein and vitamin E increased by 14.34% and 16.81% at 10 mg/kg). Target hazard quotient (THQ) assessment results showed that consuming soybean seeds exposed to Co3O4 NPs (≥100 mg/kg) and Co2+ (≥10 mg/kg) would pose potential health risks. Generally, Co3O4 NPs could exist stably in the environment and had lower environmental risks than Co2+. These results help to better understand the environmental behavior and plant effect mechanisms of Co3O4 NPs in soil-plant systems.

Evaluation of acrylamide concentration in commercial falafel available in Tehran City by different cooking methods: A health risk assessment study

The objective of current research was to measure the amount of acrylamide in falafel samples by GC–MS (Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry) technique. The results presented, the average amount of acrylamide in falafel samples was 1.23 ± 0.83 mg/kg (ranged from 0.12 to 3.75 mg/kg). Also, the results showed lower temperature and frying with electric oven and low oil, reduces the average formation of acrylamide (0.73 ± 0.42 mg/kg), while frying at high temperature and frying with gas and immersion in edible oil, increases the average amount of acrylamide formation (1.72 ± 0.86 mg/kg). The highest and lowest average amount of acrylamide was observed in falafel cooked with canola oil (1.57 ± 0.96 mg/kg) and cooked with soybean oil (0.92 ± 0.32 mg/kg), respectively. Based on the MCS (Monte Carlo Simulation) results, the THQ (Target Hazard Quotient) and ILCR (Incremental Lifetime Cancer Risk) related to exposure to acrylamide via commercial falafel for adults were 2.72E-2 and 2.77E-5; and for children were 9.69E-2 and 9.25E-5, respectively. Therefore, there doesn't a significant health risk from falafel consumption.

Heavy metals accumulation in the meat, kidney and liver of cattle, broilers and goats sold in Quetta, northwestern city of Balochistan, Pakistan

ABSTRACT 1. It was assumed that the concentrations of arsenic (As), chromium (Cr), cobalt (Co), lead (Pb), manganese (Mn) and mercury (Hg) in the meat, kidney and liver of cattle, broilers and goats within Quetta city potentially exceeded the permissible limits for heavy metal content. Risk assessment of these heavy metals on human health were estimated based on daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotient (THQ) and hazard index (HI). 2. Samples of the meat, liver and kidney of cattle, broilers and goats were collected from butcher shops and slaughterhouses in 20 different areas of Quetta city. Overall, 180 samples were analysed, each for six heavy metals. After acid digestion of meat samples, heavy metals analysis was carried out via atomic absorption spectroscopy. 3. The results varied in levels depending upon the species and organ type. The average concentrations of As, Pb and Hg were within the established reference limits of the Australia New Zealand Food Authority (ANZFA 2015) and the European Commission (EC, 2006), although some samples exceeded these limits. Compared with the kidney and meat, the liver was the primary tissue for Cr, Pb and Hg bioaccumulation. Metals concentration were mostly within the normal range in samples from cattle and goats, while the Mn concentration was elevated in broilers. 4. The estimated daily intake (EDI) revealed that the intake of As, Co, Pb and Hg was mainly derived from goat and cattle products, whereas broiler samples were more contaminated with Cr and Mn. The EDIs of Cr and Hg in adults exceeded the oral reference dose, referring to potential adverse effects. The EDIs for Co and Mn were low, suggesting that additional intake sources were necessary. Except for As, none of the determined elements had a target hazard quotient (THQ) above 1.

The Concentration of Potentially Toxic Elements in Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio) in Fish: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis and Dietary Health Risk Assessment.

Common carp (Cyprinus carpio) is one of the most consumed fish in the world and can be exposed to various forms of pollution, such as potential toxic elements (PTEs). Several studies have been conducted on the concentration of PTEs in common carp fish. The aims of the current study were to meta-analyze the concentration of PTEs in common carp fish and estimate human health risks in consumers. A search was conducted in international databases, including Scopus, PubMed, Science Direct, Web of Science, and Embase to retrieve papers up to January 20, 2024. The non-carcinogenic risk due to PTEs in fish fillets was calculated via the target hazard quotient (THQ), and the carcinogenic risk due to iAs in fish fillets was calculated via cancer risk (CR). The highest concentrations of Cu, methyl-Hg, and Ni were observed in the fillets of common carp fish. The non-carcinogenic risk was lower than 1 in all countries; hence, consuming common carp fish does not pose a non-carcinogenic risk. Adult consumers in Iraq were exposed to an unacceptable carcinogenic due to iAs in common carp fish. Hence, it is recommended that plans be conducted to reduce the concentration of PTEs in common carp fish in Iraq.

Assessment of health risks associated with heavy metal contamination in selected fish and crustacean species from Temsah Lake, Suez Canal

Marine pollution caused by heavy metals has emerged as a significant environmental concern, garnering increased attention in recent years. The accumulation of heavy metals in the tissues of marine organisms poses substantial threats to both marine ecosystems and human populations that rely on seafood as a primary food source. Fish and crustaceans are effective biomonitors for assessing heavy metal contamination in aquatic environments. In this study, we determined the concentrations of several heavy metals, including cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), nickel (Ni), mercury (Hg), and tin (Sn), in four fish species (Mugil cephalus, Mugil capito, L. aurata, and Morone labrax) and five crustacean species (S. rivulatus, Cerastoderma glaucum, Paratapes undulatus, R. decussatus, Callinectes sapidus, and Metapenaeus Stebbingi) from Temsah Lake during both winter and summer seasons. To evaluate the potential ecological and health risks associated with consuming these fish and crustacean species, we calculated the metal pollution index (MPI), weekly intake (EWI), target hazard quotient (THQ), and carcinogenic risk (CR) values. The results revealed a noticeable increase in metal levels during the summer compared to winter in the studied samples. Moreover, the concentration of heavy metals in the muscles of the species generally exceeded those in the liver and gills. The MPI values indicated that Morone labrax exhibited the highest values during winter, while L. aurata showed the highest values during summer. Mugil cephalus demonstrated the lowest MPI values in both seasons. The EWI values for the studied metals were found to be lower than the corresponding tolerable weekly intake (TWI) values. Additionally, under average exposure conditions, the THQ and HI data were generally below one for most study species in the area. The calculated CR values for investigated metals in the studied species indicated acceptable carcinogenic risk levels. Therefore, this suggests that consuming studied species within Temsah lake does not present any potential health hazards for consumers.

Potential human health risk assessment associated with Hg, Cd, Pb, and As in sardines and shrimp from four Egyptian coastal governorates

Heavy metal contamination in seafood is a developing concern due to the potential negative consequences on human health. Egypt's coastal regions are important for seafood production and consumption, making it critical to assess the safety of these aquatic resources. The current study examined toxic metal levels (Hg, Pb, Cd, and AS) in 96 samples of sardine and shrimp from four Egyptian coastal governorates (Alexandria, Kafr El-Sheikh, Damietta, and Port Said) from 2019 to 2021. Inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES) was used to investigate the four hazardous metals. The recovery percentages of the determined metals ranged between 97 % and 99 %. Limits of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) for the determined metals ranged from 0.001 to 0.0077 mg/l and from 0.0035 to 0.026 mg/l, respectively. Mercury (Hg) was not found in any of the samples tested. The concentrations of Pb and Cd in the sardines and shrimp samples were higher in the winter seasons than in the summer seasons. Meanwhile, the difference in seasons had no effect on the concentration of As in the sardines and shrimp samples. The highest concentrations of the other three metals in the sardine and shrimp samples were used to calculate the Estimated Daily Intake (EDI), Target Hazard Quotient (THQ), and Hazard Index (HI). The obtained THQ as well as the HI of Pb, Cd, and As were all less than 1.0 (with the exception of sardine samples from Kafr El-Sheikh Governorate, which recorded 1.262), indicating that there is no significant health risk to the consumer from consuming such sardines and shrimp from these governorates. The effect of different seasons on the concentrations of the metals under study does not have a specific behavior, but varies according to the governorate, the type of sample, and the type of contaminated metal. Due to the high level of contamination with heavy metals in sardine samples collected from Kafr El-Sheikh governorate (TTHQ = 1.26), an environmental study is required to determine the causes of contamination and control them.

Determination of tetracycline residues in potatoes and soil by LC-MS/MS: Method development, validation, and risk assessment

A method utilizing liquid-liquid extraction (LLE) coupled with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) was developed and validated according to the Commission Implementing Regulation (CIR) EU 2021/808 for quantifying four tetracyclines (TCs) in potatoes and soil. The method demonstrated recovery values ranging from 70 to 121% and precision (repeatability and within-laboratory reproducibility), with coefficient of variation (CV) values below 18% for all TCs in both matrices. The limits of quantification (LOQs) for the TCs ranged from 0.90 to 1.87 μg/kg in potatoes and from 0.68 to 1.25 μg/kg in soil. The decision limit (CCα) and detection capability (CCβ) ranged from 10.4 to 12.3 μg/kg and 11.9 to 14.3 μg/kg, respectively. Analysis of 538 potato and soil samples from Egyptian farms revealed a 13.2% occurrence of TC residues, with a higher frequency in soil (19.33%) than in potatoes (7.06%). Target hazard quotient (THQ) values indicated that TC residues in potatoes do not pose a health risk to Egyptian consumers.

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

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

Changes in concentrations of potentially toxic and essential elements of Iranian rice using various cooking methods: A probabilistic health risk-assessment study

In the present study, 41 domestic rice samples were analyzed for potentially toxic elements (PTEs) and essential elements (EEs) using inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). Then, a health risk assessment was carried out. Effects of cooking methods, including the rinsed and kateh (unrinsed) methods, on removing PTEs were investigated as another major aim of this study. The rinsed cooking process demonstrated significant efficacy in decreasing concentrations of Pb, Al, and Ba, as well as EEs, including Ca, Fe, K, Mn, Mo, Na, Ni, and Zn. The mean levels of PTEs (Al, As, Ba, Cr, Cd, Pb, and Ti) were respectively 4.532, 0.018, 2.186, 0.425, 0.014, 0.102, and 0.027 mg kg−1. Rinsed the rinsed cooking method included the greatest significant decreases in PTE and EE concentrations. The target hazard quotient (THQ) values of Cr, Cu and Mo were greater than those of safety limits in children but less than 1 U. Using rinsed cooking method, concentrations of PTEs, including Al, Ba and Pb, decreased 2, 3 and 7 folds in rice samples, respectively. Technically, incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) values indicate carcinogenic risks for exposure to As, Cr, and Ni for children and Cr and Ni for adults., and Ni for children, This study provides knowledge that reflects the need to set up food-safety risk management and the importance of promoting further coordinated and focused policy actions to achieve food and nutrition security.

Pollution of four heavy metal elements in dried chili peppers in Guizhou Province and its health risk assessment

This study aimed to evaluate arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), and lead (Pb) levels in dried chili peppers from nine districts in Guizhou Province. These heavy metals, widely dispersed and capable of transferring to crops, pose potential health risks to humans. The assessment included modeling daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotient (THQ), total target hazard index (TTHQ), and target carcinogenic risk (TCR) to assess health risks across different population groups. Results showed chromium (0.9540 ± 0.301 mg/kg) and lead (0.8949 ± 0.266 mg/kg) had the highest concentrations, followed by arsenic (0.3287 ± 0.093 mg/kg) and cadmium (0.0627 ± 0.017 mg/kg). Children exhibited higher EDI values than adults, indicating greater health risks from dried chili pepper consumption at equivalent levels. THQ and TTHQ values were below 1 across all regions, indicating no significant health risks associated with dried chili pepper consumption. Similarly, TCR values were below 10–4 for all nine regions, indicating an acceptable level of carcinogenic risk. Overall, consuming dried chili peppers in Guizhou Province poses an acceptable health risk, but caution is advised, especially for children, to limit heavy metal exposure.

Assessment of heavy metal contamination risk in dry fish from India: A comprehensive study

The widespread presence of heavy metal contaminants in aquatic ecosystems, and consequently in fish, has emerged as a paramount concern owing to the staple role of fish in the Indian diet. The present study addresses heavy metal contamination in dried fish consumed across India and its associated health risks. The objectives of this study were to determine the heavy metal concentrations in dried fish from different regions of India, assess daily heavy metal intake through dried fish consumption, and evaluate the carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic health risks associated with heavy metal exposure. Subsequently, 111 dried fish samples from Guwahati-Assam, Mumbai, Karad-Maharashtra, and Goa were analyzed for eight selected heavy metals using a validated inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry method results indicated varying contamination levels across locations, with As being the most abundant heavy metal. In Maharashtra and Assam, the heavy metal load in dried fish was as follows: As > Cr > Ni > V > Cd > Pb > Co > Hg. For Goa, the order was As > Cr > Ni > V > Cd > Co > Pb > Hg. Dietary exposure assessments revealed varying levels of exposure between adults and children, with As and Cd posing higher risks to children. The Target Hazard Quotient (THQ) and Hazard Index (HI) values for all metals were within acceptable limit of one. Health risk assessments revealed generally low hazard levels for adults, but higher risks for children, particularly at higher percentiles. Furthermore, As was identified as posing a medium risk of cancer. In essence, this research emphasizes the necessity for strict monitoring and regulations with the aim of controlling health hazards related to heavy metal pollution in food sources.

Health risks associated with mercury intake from rice and rice products

The main route of human exposure to toxic contaminants is through the consumption of contaminated food. To protect against potential negative health effects of rice consumption, the concentration of total mercury (THg) in rice and rice products sold in Poland was determined, and a consumer risk assessment was carried out. In this study, the concentration of THg in selected types of rice and rice products was determined and assessed. The determinations were carried out using atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) in a DMA-1 mercury analyzer. Based on the estimated daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotient values (THQ), and tolerable weekly intake (TWI), the toxicological risk associated with the intake of total mercury and methylmercury (MeHg) from the products tested was also estimated. The analysis indicated that the highest Hg content was in rice cakes and the lowest in white rice and rice noodles. Total mercury content was found to be below the maximum permitted level. The estimated daily intake (EDI) and target hazard quotient (THQ) values for THg and MeHg in rice and rice products were lower than 1. These findings suggest that the food items examined pose no health risk.

The level, human exposure, and health risk assessment of acrylamide in chips and breakfast cereals: A study from Türkiye

The aim of this study is to determine the acrylamide levels of corn chips, potato chips and breakfast cereals and to evaluate the acrylamide exposure level resulting from the consumption of these foods in terms of health risks. Firstly, the acrylamide levels of corn chips (n=19), potato chips (n=11), and breakfast cereals (n=20) were determined by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Then, the dietary acrylamide exposure resulting from chips and breakfast cereals consumption was calculated. Finally, dietary acrylamide exposure, target hazard quotient, the lifetime carcinogenic risk, and the margin of exposure approach values were calculated. The mean acrylamide levels of corn chips, potato chips, and breakfast cereals were 317±12, 3578±546, and 138±14 µg/kg, respectively. The mean acrylamide level of all chips was 1513±1876 µg/kg. The mean daily acrylamide exposure from the consumption of corn chips, potato chips, and breakfast cereals was calculated as 0.11±0.10, 1.28±0.58, and 0.08±0.06 µg/kg bw/day, respectively. The target hazard quotient values of acrylamide exposure from the consumption of corn chips, potato chips (except ketchup-flavored potato chips), and breakfast cereals are less than 1. However, the level of acrylamide exposure from the consumption of a total of 13 food samples−2 from corn chips, 10 from potato chips, and 1 from breakfast cereals−reaches alarming levels in terms of carcinogenic health risks. It is required that consumers reduce the frequency and amount of consumption of chips and breakfast cereals, especially potato chips. The results can serve as a guide for reducing exposure to acrylamide through chips and breakfast cereals consumption.