Comprehensive review of the basic chemical behaviours, sources, processes, and endpoints of trace element contamination in paddy soil-rice systems in rice-growing countries

Summary

This 2020 comprehensive review examines the occurrence, sources, and behaviour of trace elements (particularly heavy metals such as cadmium, arsenic, and lead) in paddy soil–rice systems across major rice-growing countries. The authors synthesise evidence on geochemical and anthropogenic sources of contamination, soil processes governing element mobility and plant uptake, and the implications for rice grain quality and human health through dietary exposure. The review, as suggested by its scope, aims to consolidate understanding of a significant food safety concern affecting billions of rice consumers globally.

UK applicability

Direct applicability to UK agriculture is limited, as paddy rice cultivation is not practised in the United Kingdom. However, the findings are relevant to UK consumers and policymakers concerned with food safety standards, rice imports, and understanding contaminant pathways in staple crops grown abroad. UK environmental regulators may reference this evidence when setting maximum contaminant limits for imported rice.

Key measures

Trace element (heavy metal) concentrations in paddy soils and rice grain; bioaccumulation and translocation factors; soil–plant transfer coefficients; human dietary exposure and health risk assessment endpoints.

Outcomes reported

This review synthesises evidence on the chemical behaviour, sources, transport processes, and human health endpoints of trace element (heavy metal) contamination in paddy soils and rice crops across rice-growing countries. The study examined pathways of contamination from soil to rice grain and associated food safety and nutritional implications.

Topic tags