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Two-Dimensional Visualization and Quantification of Labile, Inorganic Plant Nutrients and Contaminants in Soil
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[Distribution of six trace elements in Fuji apple].
Yu-Kui Rui1, Gui-Qin Qu, Fu-Suo Zhang
1College of Resources and Environmental Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100094, China. ruiyukui@163.com
Guang Pu Xue Yu Guang Pu Fen Xi = Guang Pu
|May 19, 2009
Summary
Eating Fuji apples with the skin on is recommended, as it contains significantly higher concentrations of essential trace elements like calcium, iron, and iodine compared to the pulp. This nutritional advantage is lost when apples are peeled.
Area of Science:
- Nutritional Science
- Analytical Chemistry
Context:
- Trace elements are vital for human health.
- Apples are a common dietary component.
Purpose:
- To quantify and compare the concentrations of six key trace elements (Calcium, Manganese, Iron, Selenium, Molybdenum, Iodine) in Fuji apple skin versus pulp.
- To determine the nutritional implications of apple consumption based on skin and pulp content.
Summary:
- Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) revealed significantly higher levels of Calcium, Manganese, Iron, Molybdenum, and Iodine in Fuji apple skin compared to the pulp.
- Iron, Manganese, and Iodine concentrations were notably higher in the skin, by 25.18, 4.78, and 2.79 times, respectively.
- Selenium concentrations were similar in both skin and pulp.
Impact:
- Suggests that consuming apples unpeeled maximizes the intake of several important trace elements.
- Highlights the nutritional value of apple skin, advising against peeling in unpolluted areas.
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