Work

Multi-Element Analysis of Sicilian Citrus Fruits from Volcanic and Non-Volcanic Areas for Geographical Authentication and Food Safety Assessment

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This study investigated the elemental composition along the soil-plant continuum of Sicilian citrus fruits grown in volcanic (Stromboli and Etna) and non-volcanic (Marsala) areas. Following microwave-assisted acid digestion, macro- and trace elements were quantified via ICP-MS in soils, whole fruits, peel, pulp, and juice. Citrus fruits from volcanic areas generally showed higher concentrations of K, P, Fe, and Al than those from Marsala. Potentially toxic elements in edible fractions were generally low, with Pb and Cd below the applicable regulatory limits. Elemental partitioning showed higher measured concentrations of several potentially toxic elements in the peel, with lower concentrations in pulp and juice. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) revealed separation of samples according to geographical origin, while Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA) achieved complete classification within the investigated dataset, with K, Al, Mg, and Ni. These findings indicate that elemental fingerprinting may support geographical characterization, together with nutritional and toxicological assessment.

Source: Foods

DOI: 10.3390/foods15173008

Authors: Giuseppa Di Bella, Vincenzo Nava, Angela Giorgia Potortì, Roberto Sturniolo, Vincenzo Lo Turco

Institution: University of Messina

Language: English

Topic: Heavy Metals in Plants

Subfield: Analytical Chemistry

Field: Chemistry

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Zero hunger

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,499