Cadmium levels of kidney from 10 different pig genetic lines in Vojvodina (northern Serbia)

Concentration of cadmium was investigated in the kidney of 480 pigs from 10 different genetic lines, produced in Vojvodina (northern Serbia). This element was determined by flame atomic absorption spectrometry after mineralisation by dry ashing. The genetic line of pigs had no influence on the cadmium levels of kidney (P > 0.05). The cadmium levels ranged from 0.168 to 1.160 mg/kg, with an average of 0.368 mg/kg. Only 1.9% of kidney slightly exceeded the maximum level set by EU and Serbian legislation.

► In mammals, cadmium is virtually absent at birth but accumulates with time, especially in the kidney.
► We produce 10 pig genetic lines in a (cross)breeding programme at farms in Vojvodina.
► Pig genetic lines had no influence on cadmium level in kidney.
► Only 1.9% of kidney slightly exceeded maximum level set by regulation.