Essential (Cu and Zn) and trace (Pb and Cd) heavy metal loads in onion and potato

Abstract

SummaryHeavy metals are one of many pollutants that can be found on the surface and in tissue of fresh vegetables. Therefore, the aim of this paper was to assess and analyse concentrations of essential (Cu and Zn) and trace (Pb and Cd) heavy metals in onion (Allium cepa L.) and potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) produced in Vojvodina. The concentration of Cu, Zn, Pb and Cd was determined in edible plant parts, onion bulbs and potato tubers by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. In only two samples of onion and four samples of potato, the concentration of Cd was above the limit set by regulations of the Republic of Serbia.

Influence of Organic Fertilizers on Onion Quality

“…The excessive application of nitrogen and other inorganic fertilizers and organic manures to vegetables can accumulate high levels of nitrate as well as heavy metals [13]. Sometimes, vegetable species may accumulate significant amounts of heavy metals, decreasing the quality and biological value of products without visible symptoms of their damage [14]. Therefore, the main objective of this investigation was to study the effect of different organic fertilizers on the internal qualities parameters of vitamin C, carotenoids, antioxidants, and heavy metals (Cd, Cu, Pb) in two different onion cultivars.…”

Cultivation of the Potato in Kosovo and Analysis of Some Quality Parameters

“…High concentrations of Pb and Cd in diets are linked with the development of many diseases, especially those cardiovascular, kidney, nervous and ossuary tissues. [4], [5] The cadmium accumulation (Cd) in the human body can cause injuries of kidney, bones and lungs, whereas the accumulation of bullet may damage the central nervous system, kidney and blood system.…”