Assessment of human health risks and heavy metal accumulation in some types of vegetables consumed in Kurdistan region of Iraq

Globally, vegetable consumption is enormous because vegetables are an important source of vitamins and other nutrients. Contaminated vegetables are the most likely source of heavy metal exposure. Hence, determining heavy metal concentrations in commonly consumed vegetables is crucial. Heavy metal contamination in vegetables grown in the industrialized districts of Pshder and Rania was investigated for cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn). The detection of heavy metals was carried out using energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (EDXRF). The results showed that the mean concentrations of Cd, Pb, Cu, and Zn in vegetable samples were 0.058 ± 0.042, 0.569 ± 0.552, 1.123 ± 0.887, and 1.525 ± 1.0 mg kg⁻¹, respectively. The mean values of Cd, Cu, and Zn in the selected vegetables were below the FAO/ WHO safe limits, while Pb exceeded the FAO/ WHO. The highest mean levels of Cd, Pb, Cu, and Zn were detected in zucchini, lettuce, onion, and broccoli. In addition to assessing the human health risk, experimental data were used to estimate daily intake, hazard quotient, and hazard index for both adults and children. The estimated daily intake of these metals through vegetables for both adults and children was found to be below the provisional tolerable daily intake values (PTDI). The hazard quotient for Pb exceeded threshold values when consuming vegetables, indicating a potential risk for adults and children. Similarly, the hazard index in most studied samples was found to be greater than 1. The findings of this study underscore the critical need for the development and implementation of robust mitigation strategies to ensure food safety and safeguard public health. It is essential to employ targeted approaches, including rigorous monitoring, adherence to best practices, and enhanced public awareness, to effectively address food safety concerns and protect the well-being of the population.