Health Risks from Toxic Metals in Sweet Lime and Oranges Grown with Wastewater

Jenn Hoskins
11th July, 2024

Health Risks from Toxic Metals in Sweet Lime and Oranges Grown with Wastewater

Image Source: Natural Science News, 2024

Key Findings

  • Researchers at Usak University studied the impact of different irrigation sources on metal levels in citrus fruits in Sargodha
  • Citrus fruits irrigated with sewage water had higher levels of cadmium, chromium, iron, and manganese compared to those irrigated with fresh water
  • Despite metal levels being within acceptable guidelines, the Health Risk Index values for cadmium, chromium, and iron indicated significant health risks
The increasing contamination of agricultural produce with potentially toxic metals has become a pressing concern due to its implications for human health. A recent study conducted by researchers at Usak University aimed to evaluate the impact of different irrigation sources on the levels of metals such as cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), iron (Fe), and manganese (Mn) in citrus fruits (Citrus sinensis and Citrus limetta)[1]. This study builds on previous research highlighting the accumulation of heavy metals in agricultural products and their potential health risks[2][3][4]. The researchers collected samples of fruit, soil, and water from two locations within the city of Sargodha: one irrigated with fresh water (FW-I) and the other with sewage water (SW-II). The samples were prepared using the wet acid digestion method, and metal concentrations were determined through Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS). The study found that the levels of Cd, Cr, Fe, and Mn in citrus samples varied significantly between the two sites. Specifically, the highest concentrations of Cr, Fe, and Mn were observed at the sewage water irrigation site (SW-II), while the lowest levels were found at the fresh water irrigation site (FW-I). The concentrations of these metals in the citrus samples ranged from 0.010 to 0.063 mg/kg for Cd, 0.015 to 0.293 mg/kg for Cr, 6.691 to 11.342 mg/kg for Fe, and 0.366 to 0.667 mg/kg for Mn. Although these levels fall within the acceptable guidelines set by the USEPA and WHO, the study emphasized that the metal pollution poses a potential threat to human health. This conclusion was based on the Health Risk Index (HRI) values for Cd, Cr, and Fe being above 1, indicating a significant risk, despite the Daily Intake of Metals (DIM) values being below 1. These findings align with earlier studies that have documented the accumulation of heavy metals in various crops irrigated with wastewater. For instance, a study on wheat irrigated with diverse doses of wastewater found that the concentration of metals such as Cd exceeded the permissible limits, posing potential health risks[2]. Another review highlighted the adverse effects of heavy metal pollution on biological functions and the potential for these metals to cause serious diseases like cancer[3]. Additionally, research on cobalt toxicity in wheat irrigated with wastewater showed that continuous use of contaminated water could lead to severe health risks over time[4]. The current study by Usak University underscores the need for regular monitoring of vegetables and fruits irrigated with wastewater to minimize health risks. The researchers recommend that such monitoring should be a routine practice to ensure that the levels of potentially toxic metals remain within safe limits. This is particularly important given the bioaccumulation potential of these metals, which can lead to long-term health issues even if immediate effects are not apparent. In summary, the study provides valuable insights into the impact of irrigation sources on metal contamination in citrus fruits. By comparing the levels of Cd, Cr, Fe, and Mn in fruits from fresh water and sewage water irrigation sites, the research highlights the importance of using safe irrigation practices to protect public health. The findings also reinforce the need for ongoing surveillance and regulation of wastewater use in agriculture to prevent the excessive build-up of harmful metals in food products.

FruitsEnvironmentHealth

References

Main Study

1) Bioaccumulation and Health Risk Assessment of Potentially Toxic Metals in Citrus Limetta & Citrus Sinensis Irrigated by Wastewater.

Published 9th July, 2024

https://doi.org/10.1007/s00128-024-03910-0

Related Studies

2) Evaluation of Potential Toxic Metals Accumulation in Wheat Irrigated with Wastewater.

https://doi.org/10.1007/s00128-019-02605-1

3) Heavy metal pollution in the environment and their toxicological effects on humans.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e04691

4) Evaluation of toxicity potential of cobalt in wheat irrigated with wastewater: health risk implications for public.

https://doi.org/10.1007/s11356-020-11815-8


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