The Accumulation and Translocation of Harmful Sb, Se, and Tl in Certain Vegetables Grown in Contaminated Areas

Abstract

Heavy metal accumulation in food produced in polluted areas can reach high levels, posing a health risk. In this study, the variation in Sb, Se, and Tl concentrations, was determined on a species and organ basis in tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, cucumbers, and corn grown near an industrial area in Düzce, one of Europe's most polluted cities. The concentrations of these elements in the soil were also determined, and the bioconcentration factor and translocation factor in the organs of the plants were calculated, thus attempting to determine the risks in terms of food safety. The study found that the concentrations of these elements in the soil were quite high, while their translocation and accumulation in the aboveground parts of plants, especially fruit organs, were at lower levels compared to other organs. Nevertheless, their concentrations in fruit organs were still quite high. In many countries, limit values for Sb, Se, and Tl in vegetables have not been established. This is considered a major deficiency. However, the values obtained in this study are well above the limit values permitted by countries such as China and Italy. This poses a significant risk to human health.