Assessing Heavy Metals using ICP-MS in Fruits from the Developing World and their Associated Health Risks

This study investigates heavy metal contamination across ten fruit varieties cultivated in Rampal and assesses the potential health risks associated with their consumption. Eight metals-Fe, Cu, Cd, Zn, Cr, Mn, Pb, and As were analyzed using an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer. Health risk indicators, including estimated daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotient (THQ), hazard index (HI), and cumulative carcinogenic risk (CR), were employed. All EDI values were below the maximum tolerable daily intake (MTDI), and THQ values for Fe, Cu, Cd, Zn, Cr, Mn, and Pb remained under one, indicating low individual risk. However, arsenic (As) exceeded the THQ threshold (> 1) in ripe mango, green banana, and ripe jackfruit, raising localized health concerns. Notably, the total THQ (TTHQ) surpassed one across samples, suggesting combined exposure to these metals poses cumulative health risks. The HI value (3.49 × 10¹) indicates significant potential for non-carcinogenic effects from regular consumption. CR values for As surpassed both the minimal and high-risk limits, reflecting considerable carcinogenic potential. In contrast, Pb values fell within a moderate range, indicating a comparatively lower risk of cancer. Principal component analysis (PCA) revealed two dominant patterns: PC1 grouped positively associated metals (Fe, Mn, Cu, and Cr) against negatively associated ones (Pb, Zn, Cd, As), while PC2 further differentiated these based on contrasting loadings. This suggests distinct elemental groupings based on shared spatial or source-related behaviour. The findings underscore the need for consistent monitoring and public health interventions.