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Updated: Mar 9, 2026
Two-Dimensional Visualization and Quantification of Labile, Inorganic Plant Nutrients and Contaminants in Soil
Published on: September 1, 2020
Genotypic variability in essential and risk element accumulation in Jerusalem artichoke tubers: implications for food
Natália Čeryová1, Jana Jakubčinová1, Judita Lidiková1
1Institute of Food Sciences, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Nitra, Slovak Republic.
Background:
Jerusalem artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus L.) (JA) is an underutilized crop valued for its nutritional potential, agronomic adaptability, and suitability for sustainable food systems. Despite increasing interest, comprehensive data on its mineral composition and associated food safety risks remain limited. This study aimed to evaluate the macro- and microelement profiles of ten JA cultivars, assess their bioaccumulation behavior, and estimate potential health risks related to cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) intake.
Results:
Potassium (K) was the dominant macronutrient in tubers (13 052-19 767 mg kg-1 dry matter (DM)), followed by calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and phosphorus (P), with pink-skinned cultivars exhibiting higher K and Mg concentrations. Among microelements, iron (Fe) (9.32-14.7 mg kg-1 DM), zinc (Zn) (5.25-6.67 mg kg-1 DM), copper (Cu) (4.12-5.34 mg kg-1 DM), and manganese (Mn) (1.71-2.58 mg kg-1 DM) predominated, showing pronounced cultivar-specific differences. Bioaccumulation factors indicated efficient uptake of Cu and Zn, whereas Fe and Mn exhibited limited translocation to tubers. The Cd and Pb content varied substantially among cultivars, ranging from 0.01 to 0.30 mg kg-1 DM and 0.21 to 1.86 mg kg-1 DM, respectively. Several cultivars exceeded the maximum levels established under European Commission (EU) Regulation 2023/915. Health risk assessment demonstrated low estimated daily intake contributions to provisional tolerable weekly intake values; target hazard quotient values for individual elements were below 1, and the overall hazard index (0.02-0.18) indicated negligible non-carcinogenic risk.
Conclusion:
Jerusalem artichoke tubers are a valuable source of essential minerals; however, cultivar-dependent accumulation of Cd and Pb may pose food safety concerns. Careful cultivar selection and systematic soil monitoring are essential to ensure the safe nutritional utilization of this crop. © 2026 Society of Chemical Industry.
