Concentration of As, Cu, Hg and Zn in soil and agricultural products (Brassica oleracea L., Lycopersicon esculentum Mill e Zea mays L.) in an industrial area in NW of Portugal

Abstract

There are several studies with soil pollutants in the Estarreja Chemical Complex (CQE) area, but their transfer to agricultural products used / consumed by the local community is unknown, despite the importance of such research. In this study the concentration of As, Cu, Hg and Zn (PHEs- Potential Harmful Elements) was determined in soil and edible parts of cabbage, tomato and corn collected in private kitchen gardens surrounding the CQE. It was found that 46%, 15% and 11.5% of the soils present, respectively, As, Hg and Cu concentrations that exceed the Canadian law levels set for agricultural soils. There was a trend for cabbage leaves to concentrate more As, Hg and Zn and tomato more Cu.

The more concerned sites should be further investigated and the study extended to other foodstuffs and local diet habits to assess potential risks to public health.