Estimation of
Toxic Metal intake through food and potential risk on the inhabitants in the vicinity
of Sundarban areas, India
Patra Khokan, Ghosh Phanibhusan and Ghosh D.
Res. J. Chem. Environ.; Vol. 29(3); 114-118;
doi: https://doi.org/10.25303/293rjce1140118; (2025)
Abstract
Present study highlighted the exposure level of toxic heavy metals lead (Pb), cadmium
(Cd) and arsenic (As) in some essential food items along with assessment of degree
of uptake through food consumption and to forecast any effect during long term consumption
of the contaminated food stuffs throughout the life period of the people from remote
and rural areas of Sundarbans. Study revealed that the level of occurrence of toxic
metals followed the order Pb > As >Cd exactly similar to that of the earth crust
implying on the probable sources. Among the foodstuffs, cereals comprising of rice
and wheat contributed maximum load of these toxic metals to an adult through consumption
during the life period followed by vegetables (Potato, Moong and Spinach) and fish
(average of Rui and Parse).
On comparing with the Provisional Tolerance Daily Intake (PTDI) values as prescribed
by WHO, it was observed that the metals Cd and As contributed less percentage (17.0
to 28.0%) showing no potential harmful effect on consumption. In contrast, accumulation
of Pb through consumption of these foodstuffs contributed 3.6 times higher than
the values as prescribed and may cause the harmful effects to the local people.
Hence, proper management action must be implemented immediately to these rural areas
by awareness as well as by supplying hygienic food items to those innocent inhabitants
near the periphery of Sundarbans.
