Zinc and copper content of some common foods

Abstract

rThe zinc and copper contents of some plant and animal foods commonly available in Sri Lanka were determined. The bioavailability of zinc in plant foods was assessed by determining their phytate content. The food samples in their raw, uncooked state were subjected t o wet digestion and the respective concentranons of zinc and copper were measured by atomic absorption spectroscopy. The phytate phosphorus content of plant foods was determined by the method of Oberleas. The zinc content of foods was higher than that of copper. Fish and Ox liver were the richest sources of zinc and copper. All animal foods studied could make a 'significant contribution t o the supply of zinc in the diet. Of the plant foods analysed, pulses were good sources of both nutrients, while cereals and starchy roots contained moderate amounts. However, both pulses and cereals had phytate to zinc molar ratios exceeding 12, thus decreasing the bioavailability of zinc in these foods. Green leafy vegetables and legumes had higher amounts of copper and bio-availablezinc compared t o other vegetables and fruits.

Profile of heavy metals in some medicinal plants from Ghana commonly used as components of herbal formulations

“…Zinc is a component of many metalloenzymes, especially some enzymes which play a central role in nucleic acid metabolism. [ 9 ] Zinc is also a membrane stabilizer and a stimulator of the immune response. [ 10 ] Manifestations of acute zinc poisoning include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever and lethargy.…”

Quality control standards for the roots of ThreePlumbagospecies

“…It is essential for growth, reproduction and skeleton development in humans[ 19 20 ]. The maximum concentration of manganese was observed in P. zeylanica>P. rosea>P. capensis , which are used in skin diseases, scabies, piles and rheumatism[ 21 22 ]. Zinc is a component of many metalloenzymes and also a membrane stabilizer and a stimulator of the immune response[ 23 24 ].…”

Analysis of the Proximate Composition and Energy Values of Two Varieties of Onion (Allium Cepa L.) Bulbs of Different Origin: A Comparative Study

“…Zinc which plays a vital role in the proper functioning of the reproductive system [23] and nucleic acid metabolism [24] was higher in the Indian variety. Zn is also beneficial as a membrane stabilizer and a stimulator of the immune response.…”