List Of Foods Containing Heavy Metals

Food TypeCountryIdentified Heavy MetalsConcentrations
Grain, maizeChinaCr2+0.08–0.38 mg/kg
Pb2+0.02–0.013 mg/kg
Cu2+0.16–0.85 mg/kg
Zn2+0.16–0.53 mg/kg
LettuceSpainNi2+< 0.02 mg/kg
Hg2+< 0.008 mg/kg
As3+< 0.005 mg/kg
Cd2+< 0.005 mg/kg
Florida, USAAs3+27.3 mg/kg
RomaniaCd2+0.97–1.52 mg/kg
Cu2+8.1–11.8 mg/kg
Pb2+0.82–2.22 mg/kg
Zn2+59.5–139.5 mg/kg
TomatoRomaniaCu2+32.5–46.0 µg/g
Mn2+13.0–13.5 µg/g
Fe2+30.5–33.5 µg/g
Cd2+nd–0.1 µg/g
Pb2+0.65–0.75 µg/g
Zn2+4.5–9.5 µg/g
Co2+nd–2.2 µg/g
RadishIndiaCu2+5.96 mg/kg
PotatoEgyptCu2+0.83 mg/kg
ChinaCu2+1.03 mg/kg
Cr2+0.03 mg/kg
Pb2+0.067 mg/kg
Cd2+0.015 mg/kg
BangladeshAs3+0.006 mg/kg
Cd2+0.013 mg/kg
Pb2+0.007 mg/kg
Cr2+0.528 mg/kg
Mn2+6.928 mg/kg
Ni2+0.643 mg/kg
Cu2+4.3 mg/kg
Zn2+3.019 mg/kg
White potatoRomaniaCd2+0.13–0.34 mg/kg
Cu2+0.1–0.24 mg/kg
Pb2+0.3–0.4 mg/kg
Zn2+41.0–94.5 mg/kg
Red potatoCd2+0.16–0.46 mg/kg
Cu2+5.4–6.4 mg/kg
Pb2+0.37–1.03 mg/kg
Zn2+56.5–64.0 mg/kg
Grape—white varietiesCroatiaV2+12–59 ng/g
Cr2+18–203 ng/g
Mn2+14–180 ng/g
Fe2+5–40 ng/g
Ni2+1–7 ng/g
Cu2+52–533 ng/g
Zn2+5–43 ng/g
As3+0.3–3.8 ng/g
Pb2+1–21 ng/g
Grape—red varietiesCroatiaV2+24–63 ng/g
Cr2+11–175 ng/g
Mn2+82–229 ng/g
Fe2+107–204 ng/g
Ni2+3–6 ng/g
Cu2+55–210 ng/g
Zn2+103–207 ng/g
As3+0.2–4.9 ng/g
Pb2+2–39 ng/g
GrapesEgyptCd2+nd
Cr2+nd–1.06 mg/kg
Cu2+0.72–3.52 mg/kg
Pb2+nd
Ni2+0.3–1.78 mg/kg
BananaBangladeshAs3+nd
Cd2+nd
Pb2+0.003 mg/kg
Cr2+0.317 mg/kg
Mn2+10.74 mg/kg
Ni2+0.037 mg/kg
Cu2+0.946 mg/kg
Zn2+0.235 mg/kg
MangoBangladeshAs3+0.013 mg/kg
Cd2+0.005 mg/kg
Pb2+0.642 mg/kg
Cr2+0.893 mg/kg
Mn2+6.06 mg/kg
Ni2+0.293 mg/kg
Cu2+7.891 mg/kg
Zn2+0.604 mg/kg
OnionRomaniaCd2+0.17–0.34 mg/kg
Cu2+3.6–12.3 mg/kg
Pb2+0.16–0.18 mg/kg
Zn2+28.0–47.0 mg/kg
CarrotRomaniaCd2+0.27–0.69 mg/kg
Cu2+6.0–9.4 mg/kg
Pb2+0.54–0.94 mg/kg
Zn2+51.0–75.5 mg/kg
BeansRomaniaCd2+0.04–0.05 mg/kg
Cu2+7.0–11.1 mg/kg
Pb2+0.08–0.52 mg/kg
Zn2+58.5–91.0 mg/kg
ApplesKosovoPb2+1.49–2.17 mg/kg
Cd2+0.17–0.21 mg/kg
Cr2+8.22–11.6 mg/kg
Ni2+15.33–17.2 mg/kg
As3+nd–0.009 mg/kg
Zn2+1.51–2.03 mg/kg
Cu2+1.05–2.87 mg/kg
Fe2+2.27–3.12 mg/kg
EgyptCd2+nd
Cr2+nd–1.06 mg/kg
Cu2+0.72–3.52 mg/kg
Pb2+nd
Ni2+0.3–1.78 mg/kg
UkraineCr2+0.0225–0.246 mg/kg
Zn2+0.964–4.192 mg/kg
Cu2+0.766–1.264 mg/kg
Cd2+0.088–0.284 mg/kg
Pb2+1.347–3.886 mg/kg
OrangesEgyptCd2+nd
Cr2+nd
Cu2+0.36–2.2 mg/kg
Pb2+nd
Ni2+0.06–0.38 mg/kg
Meat and Milk
Food TypeCountryIdentified Heavy MetalConcentrations
Pork meat productsItalyCr2+0.15–0.23 mg/kg
Cd2+0.01–0.03 mg/kg
Hg2+0.01–0.02 mg/kg
Cu2+1.08–1.21 mg/kg
Pb2+0.22–0.38 mg/kg
Beef meatIranCd2+0.028 mg/kg
Hg2+0.003 mg/kg
BaconRomaniaPb2+0.58 mg/kg
Cd2+0.11 mg/kg
Cu2+1.02 mg/kg
Zn2+42.1 mg/kg
Mutton meatChina (Beijing)Cr2+0.654 mg/kg
Cd2+0.031 mg/kg
Pb2+0.128 mg/kg
As3+0.008 mg/kg
Hg2+0.005 mg/kg
HamRomaniaPb2+0.65 mg/kg
Cd2+0.13 mg/kg
Cu2+0.73 mg/kg
Zn2+33.5 mg/kg
SalamiRomaniaPb2+0.96 mg/kg
Cd2+0.21 mg/kg
Cu2+1.32 mg/kg
Zn2+32.19 mg/kg
SausageRomaniaPb2+0.82 mg/kg
Beef meatRepublic of Srpska and Bosnia and HerzegovinaAs3+0.005–0.030 mg/kg
Cd2+0.001–0.012 mg/kg
Pork meatAs3+0.005–0.022 mg/kg
Cd2+0.001–0.007 mg/kg
Poultry meatAs3+0.006–0.015 mg/kg
Cd2+0.001 mg/kg
Mechanically debonet meatAs3+0.05–0.016 mg/kg
Cd2+0.001–0.002 mg/kg
Red meatAsiaPb2+605.3–1435.18 μg/kg
Cd2+206.45–257.79 μg/kg
AfricaPb2+840.64–1094.42 μg/kg
Cd2+74.69–94.66 μg/kg
BeefItalyAs3+0.012 μg/g
Cd2+nd
Hg2+nd
Ni2+nd
Pb2+0.019 μg/g
Zn2+48.94 μg/g
PorkAs3+0.015 μg/g
Cd2+nd
Hg2+nd
Ni2+nd
Pb2+0.024 μg/g
Zn2+44.91 μg/g
Raw cow milkEgyptHg2+0.0014 mg/kg
As3+0.012 mg/kg
Pb2+0.1016 mg/kg
Cd2+0.07 mg/kg
Cr2+0.1044 mg/kg
Cu2+0.0656 mg/kg
Milk and dairy productsEgyptPb2+0.044–0.751 ppm
Cd2+0.008–0.179 mg/kg
Zn2+0.888–18.316 mg/kg
Cu2+0.002–1.692 mg/kg
MilkMonte CarloPb2+0.55 mg/kg
Cd2+0.003 mg/kg
Raw cow milkTurkeyPb2+16.7 μg/kg
Cd2+0.53 μg/kg
Hg2+0.18 μg/kg
As3+4.02 μg/kg
MilkTurkeyAs3+1.01 μg/kg
Al2+71.89 μg/kg
Ni2+98.53 μg/kg
Cd2+nd
Pb2+0.85 μg/kg
Full fat UHT milkCyprusAs3+2.33 μg/kg
Cd2+5.00 μg/kg
Pb2+2.66 μg/kg
Hg2+3.66 μg/kg
Halloumi cheeseAs3+12.33 μg/kg
Cd2+44.33 μg/kg
Pb2+35.33 μg/kg
Cu2+591.33 μg/kg
Hg2+15.00 μg/kg
Full-fat yogurtAs3+6.00 μg/kg
Cd2+36.33 μg/kg
Pb2+3.00 μg/kg
Cu2+15.66 μg/kg
Hg2+6.00 μg/kg
Cream with a minimum of 10% milk fatRepublic of Srpska and Bosnia and HerzegovinaAs3+0.019 mg/kg
Cream with over 70% milk fatAs3+0.029 mg/kg
CheeseAs3+0.012–0.015 mg/kg
MilkTanzaniaPb2+0.263 mg/kg
Cd2+nd
Co2+0.020 mg/kg
Sheep and goart milkItalyAs3+nd
Cd2+nd
Hg2+nd
Ni2+nd
Pb2+0.002 μg/g
Zn2+2.77 μg/g
Oils
Food TypeCountryHeavy MetalsConcentration
Corn oilTurkeyCd2+0.0012 mg/kg
Ni2+0.0015 mg/kg
Zn2+0.0330 mg/kg
IranPb2+0.099 mg/kg
Soybean oilTurkeyCd2+0.0013 mg/kg
Ni2+0.0027 mg/kg
Zn2+0.0348 mg/kg
Salvador, BrazilCu2+0.83 mg/kg
Rice oilIllnios, USACd2+<0.891 mg/kg
Olive oilCyprusCd2+0.05 mg/kg
TurkeyCd2+0.9922 mg/kg
IranCd2+0.0955 mg/kg
LondonPb2+0.143 mg/kg
PakistanPb2+4.285 mg/kg
UkraineCu2+0.355 mg/kg
GreeceCu2+0.086 mg/kg
Rapeseed oilIranCd2+0.098 mg/kg
ChinaPb2+1.96 mg/kg
PolandPb2+0.056 mg/kg
Salvador, BrazilCu2+0.81 mg/kg
Sesame oilIranCd2+0.0935 mg/kg
Coconut oilLondonPb2+0.158 mg/kg
Sesame oilPakistanPb2+4.005 mg/kg
Sunflower oilLondonPb2+0.274 mg/kg
IranPb2+0.099 mg/kg
Salvador, BrazilCu2+0.81 mg/kg
Linseed oilPolandCu2+0.10 mg/kg
Flaxseed oilKoreaPb2+25.65 µg/kg
Cd2+70.03 µg/kg
As3+3.1 µg/kg
Al2+29.81 mg/kg
Sesame oilPb2+36.01 µg/kg
As3+15.18 µg/kg
Al2+15.97 mg/kg
CanolaMonte CarloAs3+0.062–0.118 mg/kg
Cd2+0.097–0.123 mg/kg
Cu2+0.027–0.041 mg/kg
CornAs3+0.095–0.106 mg/kg
Cd2+0.018–0.045 mg/kg
Cu2+0.027–0.041 mg/kg
Ni2+0.024–0.076 mg/kg
Zn2+0.613–1.090 mg/kg
CottonseedAs3+0.104–0.116 mg/kg
Cd2+0.001–0.008 mg/kg
Cu2+0.010–0.062 mg/kg
Ni2+0.016–0.078 mg/kg
Pb2+−0.004–0.016 mg/kg
Zn2+−0.060–2.148 mg/kg
SoybeanAs3+−0.037–0.125 mg/kg
Cd2+0.058–0.129 mg/kg
Cu2+0.247–0.283 mg/kg
Ni2+0.579–0.677 mg/kg
Pb2+0.033–0.070 mg/kg
Zn2+0.357–0.588 mg/kg
SunflowerAs3+−0.019–0.147 mg/kg
Cd2+0.024–0.038 mg/kg
Cu2+−0.026–0.233 mg/kg
Ni2+0.153–0.221 mg/kg
Pb2+0.022–0.025 mg/kg
Zn2+0.411–0.456 mg/kg

The presence of heavy metals in foods is a concerning issue that can pose risks to public health. Heavy metal contamination in foods can occur due to various sources, such as contaminated soil, residual muds, chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and other materials.

Foods can become contaminated by heavy metals like mercury, lead, cadmium, nickel, and zinc. These toxic metals can accumulate in the food chain, leading to potential harm to human health. Instances of heavy metal contaminated foods include cereals, rice, wheat, edible roots, mushrooms, fish, crustaceans, and mollusks.

Consuming foods with high heavy metal content can result in metal toxicity in the body, which can have adverse effects on overall well-being. It’s important to be aware of the dangerous substances present in our diet and take necessary precautions to reduce heavy metal exposure.

Health Risks of Heavy Metal Contamination

Heavy metals can pose significant health risks when consumed in high levels. The adverse effects of heavy metals on health are well-documented, with toxic metals like arsenic, lead, and mercury being particularly concerning.

Exposure to these heavy metals can result in various health complications, including neurological disorders, organ damage, gastrointestinal issues, increased cancer risk, and the progression of neurological diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. These adverse health effects can be debilitating and have long-lasting implications for individuals.

Symptoms of heavy metal toxicity may vary depending on the type of metal and the duration of exposure. Common symptoms can include fatigue, brain fog, digestive issues, muscle weakness, and headaches. It is essential to recognize these symptoms and seek medical attention if heavy metal exposure is suspected.

Long-term exposure to heavy metals can lead to chronic health conditions and significantly impact overall well-being. It is crucial to minimize heavy metal intake and take proactive measures to reduce exposure in order to safeguard health and prevent potential long-term complications.

Common Sources of Heavy Metal Exposure

Heavy metals have the potential to enter the body through various sources, contributing to exposure and potential health risks. Let’s take a closer look at the common sources of heavy metal exposure.

1. Drinking Water

Contaminated drinking water can be a significant source of heavy metal exposure. It is especially concerning when the water supply is contaminated with metals like lead, arsenic, or mercury. These heavy metals can leach into the water from natural deposits, industrial pollution, or aging infrastructure, posing a risk to human health.

2. Food Chain Contamination

Heavy metals can enter the food chain through several pathways. Contaminated soil, pesticides, and industrial practices contribute to the presence of heavy metals in crops, fruits, and vegetables. As a result, consuming these contaminated foods can lead to heavy metal exposure.

3. Environmental Factors

Environmental pollutants, such as air pollution from industrial emissions or vehicle exhaust, can introduce toxic heavy metals into the environment. These pollutants can settle on soil, water, and crops, ultimately increasing the risk of heavy metal exposure through inhalation or ingestion.

It’s important to be aware of these common sources of heavy metal exposure to take appropriate measures in minimizing the risks. By understanding how heavy metals enter our bodies, we can make informed choices to protect our health.

Minimizing Heavy Metal Exposure

While heavy metals can be present in some foods, it is important for individuals to take practical steps to reduce their exposure. By implementing the following strategies, you can minimize heavy metal intake and promote a healthier lifestyle:

  1. Diversify your diet: Consuming a wide variety of foods can help reduce heavy metal exposure. Incorporate different grains, vegetables, fruits, and protein sources into your meals to ensure a balanced and diverse diet.
  2. Choose low heavy metal foods: Be mindful of the heavy metal content in certain foods. For example, rice and fish are more likely to contain heavy metals such as arsenic and mercury. Consider substituting rice with alternatives like quinoa and selecting fish with lower mercury levels.
  3. Wash and peel fruits and vegetables: Properly washing and peeling fruits and vegetables can help remove any potential heavy metal contaminants. Additionally, consider sourcing your produce from reputable farmers and producers who prioritize responsible growing practices.

Minimizing heavy metal exposure is a proactive approach to protecting your health and well-being. By diversifying your diet and making informed food choices, you can significantly reduce heavy metal intake and promote a healthier lifestyle.

Remember, responsible sourcing of produce and choosing low heavy metal foods are crucial aspects of minimizing heavy metal exposure. By implementing these strategies, you can take control of your diet and reduce the potential health risks associated with heavy metals.

Testing for Heavy Metal Exposure

If you suspect heavy metal exposure or are experiencing related symptoms, it is important to consult a healthcare provider for proper testing. There are various methods available to test for heavy metal exposure, including blood tests, urine tests, hair tests, and fingernail tests.

Blood tests for heavy metals involve taking a blood sample, which is then analyzed in a laboratory to measure the levels of specific heavy metals. Urine tests, on the other hand, involve collecting a urine sample to determine the presence and levels of heavy metals that have been excreted by the body.

Another method of testing for heavy metal exposure is through hair and fingernail analysis. These tests involve collecting samples of hair or fingernails, which can provide information about long-term exposure to heavy metals. These samples are analyzed in a laboratory to identify the levels of heavy metals present.

Once heavy metal exposure is confirmed through testing, healthcare professionals can provide guidance on next steps to minimize exposure and mitigate health risks. It is crucial to follow their recommendations and take necessary precautions to ensure your well-being.