Health Assessment of Trace Metal Concentrations in Organic Fertilizer in Northern China

Abstract

The application of organic fertilizer could be accompanied by potential hazards to soil and humans caused by trace metals. A wide survey of organic fertilizers was carried out in northern China. A total of 117 organic fertilizer samples were collected to analyze the concentrations of seven trace metals. Simulation models were used to estimate the trace metal accumulation risk in soil and non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks to the human body. The concentrations of trace metals varied widely (Cr: 2.74–151.15; Ni: 2.94–49.35; Cu: 0.76–378.32; Zn: 0.50–1748.01; As: 1.54–23.96; Cd: 2.74–151.15; and Pb: 1.60–151.09 mg·kg−1). Chinese organic fertilizer standard limits were exceeded by0.85% for Cr, 5.98% for As, 1.71% for Cd, and 4.27% for Pb. Monte Carlo simulations showed that repeated application of organic fertilizer likely significantly increased the concentrations of Zn, Cd, and As in soil compared with the soil background levels according to the Soil Environmental Quality Standards of China. As and Cr pose high risks to human health, especially as carcinogenic risk factors with a skin exposure pathway. Reducing the content of Cr, Cu, Zn, As, and Cd in organic fertilizer would be of great significance for minimizing the damage caused by trace metals.

Towards Achieving Food Security in Nigeria: A Fuzzy Comprehensive Assessment of Heavy Metals Contamination in Organic Fertilizers

“…Chibueze, et al [24] evaluated the heavy metals concentrations in farmyard manure and chemical fertilizers used in Southeastern Nigeria, a high prevalence of Iron (Fe) concentration in pig manure was observed as compared with synthetic fertilizers. Similarly, Gong, et al [20] assessed the concentrations of trace metals in 117 animal-based manures; it was observed that the concentrations of Chromium (Cr), Cadmium (Cd), Lead (Pb), and Arsenic (As) all exceeded the Chinese organic fertilizers standards limits in the range of 0.85 -5.98% while the concentrations of Nickel (Ni), Copper (Cu) and Zinc (Zn) exceeded the limits set by the German authority in the range of 1.17 -35.04%.…”

“…The numerous benefits and the suitability of MP-AES for metal analysis have been rigorously reviewed by Balaram [35]. According to Gong, et al [20] the chemical analysis of standard samples, duplicate samples, and method blanks was equally carried out to ensure quality control and assurance. Prior to chemical analysis, 1 gram (dry weight) of each sample, in admixture with 4 ml of 50% nitric acid (HNO3) and 10ml of 20% Hydrochloric acid (HCl), was prepared.…”

“…The bioaccumulation of toxic pollutants in plant tissue is greatly influenced by factors such as plant species and types, soil pH and redox potential, soil organic matter content as well as the existing concentration of heavy metals in soil [18]. Long-term exposure of humans to toxic metals, through the ingestion of contaminated food, can greatly deteriorate human health and increase the risk of carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic cells [20].…”

Managing Soils for Recovering from the COVID-19 Pandemic

“…Applying quality-controlled organic residues from industry on agricultural land may contribute to an extensive circular economy. Reducing mineral P fertilizers may also help decrease the input of harmful trace elements such as cadmium or uranium [47]; the application of secondary raw material fertilizers should be monitored by quality control measures [48,49]. In the past, intensive farming with excessive N and P fertilization have caused nutrient losses to surface and subsurface water, generating environmental harm in the form of nitrate leaching and eutrophication [50,51].…”

Environmental Impact of Potentially Toxic Elements on Tropical Soils Used for Large-Scale Crop Commodities in the Eastern Amazon, Brazil

“…In addition, the disposal of waste and the application of pesticides and fertilizers can increase the concentration of potentially toxic elements (PTEs), such as Pb, Cd, Cu, Mn, Zn and Hg, in soils and groundwater, which may cause toxicity risks to the ecosystem and human health [11][12][13][14][15][16][17]. Although these elements occur naturally, anthropogenic sources contribute significantly to increased rates of PTE redistribution among the compartments of the environment [18,19].…”