Pyrrolizidine alkaloid contamination in loose tea and its health risk assessment

Pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) are phytotoxins that can contaminate Camellia sinensis, posing health risks through tea consumption. This study aimed to quantify six PAs in 32 loose tea samples (17 black, 15 green) available in the Lebanese market and collected from Beirut suburbs using UPLC-MS/MS, compare with EU guidelines, and assess dietary exposure risks. The results showed sum PA concentrations averaged 110.4 μg/kg (range 12.2-609.9 μg/kg), with black teas showing higher average contamination (125.9 μg/kg) than green teas (92.9 μg/kg) (P > 0.05).Exposure assessments revealed samples exceeding the EU PA limits for both adults and children. Long-term MOE risk assessments indicated minimal risk for adults, but moderate concern for children, particularly with frequent consumption. These findings underscore the need for stricter regulations and enhanced monitoring to mitigate dietary PA exposure risks.