The distribution of selenium levels in Saudi dairy farms: a preliminary report from Al-Kharj

A survey was undertaken within four dairy farms in Al-Kharj area, Saudi Arabia, to measure the selenium (Se) content in the soil, alfalfa, and water samples. Selenium was determined by Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrometry. Selenium content in the studied soil samples was low, and, in some farms, the Se content of alfalfa approached that in the low-Se zone in China. This may be reflected in the dietary Se-intake level of the Saudi population with an increased risk for developing Se deficiency-associated diseases. We suggest that extensive surveys of the Se status should be carried out in Saudi Arabia. Moreover, Se supplementation of the soil may be advisable.