Summary
This 2025 book chapter integrates toxicology and nutritional science to examine how major classes of food contaminants—heavy metals, pesticides, and microbial toxins—mechanistically interfere with nutrient absorption and utilisation. By synthesising evidence on contamination-nutrient interactions, the work aims to support evidence-based revision of food safety standards and dietary guidance, particularly for populations with elevated contamination exposure.
Regional applicability
The mechanisms described are biologically universal and applicable to United Kingdom populations and food systems, though the practical relevance will depend on local contamination patterns, agricultural practices, and dietary exposure profiles. UK-specific application would require assessment of typical contaminant levels in the national food supply.
Key measures
Mechanisms of nutrient bioavailability interference; contaminant-nutrient interaction pathways; absorption dynamics
Outcomes reported
The chapter examines how major classes of food contaminants (heavy metals, pesticides, microbial toxins) mechanistically interfere with nutrient absorption and utilisation. It synthesises evidence on contamination-nutrient interactions to inform food safety standards and dietary guidance.
Topic tags
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