Health Risk Assessment of Metal(loid) Pollution in Rice Field via Soil-Paddy Plant System: A Review

Metal pollution of soil is of great significance because of the metals’ toxicity and capacity to accumulate in the environment. Although the poisoning of agricultural soils by metal(loid)s is a major global problem, very little research has been conducted on this subject. To fulfill this gap, the present review discusses the bioavailability of metal(loid)s in paddy field soil, their absorption and transport processes in rice plants, and potential risks to human health associated with consuming metal(loid)-contaminated rice. As one of the main staple foods and a vital component of maintaining global food and nutritional security, rice also serves as one of the largest reservoirs of potentially harmful metal(loid)s such as Cd, As, Pb, Hg, and Cr due to a variety of man-made and natural sources. Since contaminated rice grains are widely distributed worldwide, there is a severe risk to the public's health, and immediate action is required. Although there are more significant health concerns for those who live near contaminated hotspots, the issue is one that is of global significance due to the import and export of rice across nations. Reducing the bioavailability of metal(loid)s and regulating rice plant uptake can help decrease the accumulation of Cd, As, Pb, Hg, and Cr in rice grains.