Concentrations of arsenic, cadmium, lead and zinc in homegrown vegetables and fruits: Estimated intake by population in an industrialized area of Sardinia, Italy

The dietary intake of arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb) and zinc (Zn) has been estimated through an environmental research carried out in a small town located in an industrialized area of Sardinia, Italy. Data on vegetables and fruits have been collected in two different periods, July 2009 and March 2010; thirty-five different vegetables and fruits were collected for a total of 255 samples. Sampling areas were represented by small and medium vegetable family gardens. Spices and herbs showed the highest concentrations; the highest median concentrations for other food have been found in pulses for As (0.142 mg/kg), in leafy vegetables for Cd (0.147 mg/kg), in fruits for Pb (0.294 mg/kg), in pulses for Zn (13.03 mg/kg). Human health risk assessment was evaluated for three population groups: total population, infants and children. PTWI values were used for the risk assessment of As, Cd and Pb, whereas PTMDI value was used for Zn. For each population group, the toxicological parameters have not been exceeded. The highest estimated intake was for Pb and Cd, while intake of Zn and As was very low. Infants are more sensitive than the other population groups as expected.

► Dietary intake of arsenic, cadmium, lead and zinc has been estimated in Sardinia.
► Data on fruits and vegetables have been collected in 2 different seasons.
► The toxicological parameters have been not exceeded.
► Based on the estimated daily intakes infants are the most sensitive group.