Work

Impact of Agricultural Practices on Metal Accumulation and Their Associated Health Risks to the Environment and Consumers: A One Health Perspective

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: In the context of the One Health approach, this study assessed the environmental and human health risks posed by 21 chemical elements in soil and in food products (bee pollen, honey, and orange fruits). Data were collected from three cultivated and one uncultivated field, considering the agricultural practices employed. Findings revealed higher metal concentrations in the uncultivated field: Zn > Fe > Pb > Co > Cr > Mn > Ni > Al > Mo > P > B. No significant differences were noted for Ca, Cd, Cu, Sb, Se, and U. The geo-accumulation index indicated moderate Cu accumulation in cultivated fields. Only Hg in uncultivated soil poses a considerable risk at the 95th percentile. Orange fruits showed the lowest metal concentration, whereas bee pollen displayed the highest. In this last product, some elements are present at levels up to 10 times those in other food items, primarily Al, Fe, Zn, and Mn. The hazard quotient for non-genotoxic effects was below 1, indicating low concern. In terms of cancer risk, the levels of Pb and Cd were acceptable, while Ni in beehive products and orange fruits posed a moderate risk.

Source: Environments

DOI: 10.3390/environments13040217

Authors: Eva Doménech, Isabel Escriche

Institution: Universitat Politècnica de València

Language: English

Topic: Heavy metals in environment

Subfield: Pollution

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Zero hunger, Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,172