Summary
This field trial investigated how differential zinc spiking of soil affects zinc uptake, accumulation, and bioavailability in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), alongside human dietary health risk assessment. The authors measured zinc concentrations across plant tissues and grain, estimated daily intake scenarios, and calculated pollution and health risk indices to evaluate potential consumer exposure. The work contributes to understanding contaminant dynamics in cereal crops and food safety implications in zinc-enriched or contaminated agricultural soils.
UK applicability
Findings may be of limited direct applicability to UK wheat production, as UK soils typically have adequate to excessive zinc levels through industrial legacy and manure application, rather than acute deficiency. However, the methodology for assessing zinc transfer factors and health risk indices could inform UK food safety monitoring if localised soil contamination becomes a concern.
Key measures
Zinc concentration in wheat tissues; daily dietary intake of zinc; health risk index; pollution load index
Outcomes reported
The study examined zinc accumulation in wheat grain and plant tissues when cultivated in soil with varying zinc concentrations, and assessed associated dietary health risks to consumers.
Topic tags
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