Heavy Metals & Elemental Analysis of Food Products

Heavy metals are chemical elements that have toxic effects on the human body. With the increase in industrial activities, heavy metal levels in the environment have increased significantly. Especially the heavy use of fertilizers and pesticides is a major factor.

The presence of heavy metals in food and beverages poses great risks to human health. In order to protect human health, heavy metals in foods must be traceable. Heavy metal control is required in basic foods such as fruits and vegetables, milk and dairy products, meat and its derivatives, edible oils, as well as in some alcoholic beverages such as beer and wine.

We said that high amounts or long-term exposure to heavy metals causes various health problems. Lead affects the normal functioning of enzymes in the human body and has been linked to carcinogenesis, mutagenesis and teratogenesis in various animal tests.

Cadmium may cause adverse effects on the urinary and respiratory systems. It may cause osteomalacia. Copper can cause Menkes disease (manifested by stunting and serious neurological difficulties) or Wilson's disease (deposition of copper in the liver and central nervous system).

Zinc causes digestive and metabolic disorders. It can cause paralysis of the central nervous system and damage to the circulatory system and muscles. Arsenic can affect the cardiovascular and reproductive systems. It may cause cancer or diabetes. Nickel can cause serious respiratory disorders. It has carcinogenic effects.

Mercury causes sleep disorders, irritable mood, muscle spasms, memory loss, depression, etc. causes. Chromium affects neuron functions, kidney and liver activity. Cobalt causes allergic contact dermatitis, asthma, cardiovascular diseases, decreased fertility.

You can contact Nanolab Analysis Laboratory for the Analysis of Metals and Other Elements in Food.