Trace Metals in Vegetables and Associated Health Risks in Industrial Areas of Savar, Bangladesh

BACKGROUND. The occurrence of high levels of trace metals in foodstuffs represents a significant threat to human health. Vegetables grown in metal-contaminated soil or irrigated with wastewater can accumulate metals and bioaccumulate in the food chain affecting animals and humans. OBJECTIVES. The present study aimed to measure the levels of lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr) and cobalt (Co) in common vegetables grown in the industrial areas of Savar, Bangladesh, and to determine their potential health risks. METHODS. Five vegetables species: jute (Corchorus capsularis), red amaranth (Amaranthus gangeticus), okra (Abelmoschus esculentus), zucchini (Luffa aegyptiaca) and stem amaranth (Amaranthus viridis) were sampled randomly from agricultural fields across each study site. Vegetable samples were digested in a microwave digestion system (Berghof Microwave MWS-2, Germany). Metal concentrations were determined using an atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AA-7000, Shimadzu Corporation, Japan). RESULTS. The range of Pb, Cd, Cr and Co in analyzed vegetables was 0.643–3.362, 0.041–0.049, 1.681–2.431 and 1.612–2.492 mg/kg, respectively. The target hazard quotient (THQ) of Pb in zucchini and stem amaranth and the THQs of Cr in all analyzed vegetables was greater than one. The target carcinogenic risk (TCR) of Pb and Cd for all analyzed vegetables was in the unacceptable range. In all vegetable samples, lead content was detected to be higher than the maximum permissible limits. The THQ values indicate the possibility of non-carcinogenic health risk through consumption of these vegetables. In addition, the TCR values of Pb and Cd indicate a lifetime carcinogenic health risks to consumers. CONCLUSIONS. Consumption of vegetables grown in this area may pose long-term health risks. COMPETING INTERESTS. The authors declare no competing financial interests.