Determination of some Heavy Metals in Children's Food

This article discusses the levels of heavy metals such as copper, lead, and cadmium in various foodstuffs consumed by children in the Syrian market. It analyzed two cereal products, Brentolak and Sami, using atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) and a novel wet digestion method developed for precision and accuracy. Samples from all flavors and production dates of Brentolak and Sami cereals were collected and analyzed. The research showed varying levels of heavy metals in different samples and flavors. The concentrations of Cu, Pb, and Cd ranged from 1.366-1.51 µg/g, 0.014-0.038 µg/g, and 0.014-0.042 µg/g, respectively. For lead (Pb), the HRI values were generally below 1, indicating levels within safe limits. However, some flavors, such as Wheat and Milk and Rice and Milk from Brentolak, had values approaching 1, suggesting that while the risk is not immediate, continuous monitoring is required to ensure lead levels do not exceed safe thresholds and for Cadmium (Cd) levels, on the other hand, were relatively higher compared to the reference dose, with some samples, such as Sami Fruits and Brentolak Rice and Milk, displaying HRI values approaching or exceeding 1. This suggests a potential health risk for infants consuming these products over time, necessitating measures to reduce cadmium exposure in these formulas For Lead (Pb) CR values were consistently below 10⁻⁶, indicating negligible risk across all formulas for both brands and for Cadmium (Cd) CR were below 10⁻⁶ too across all formulas, The Sami Fruits and Brentolak Rice and Milk flavors presented the highest CR values. Comparative analysis with international standards shows safe levels of copper, but lead and cadmium levels require cautious monitoring and management. This highlights the need for serious quality control measures coupled with regulatory oversight, especially for food products meant for children, to ensure safety. These findings indicate the necessity for routine surveillance and strict control to limit the risk of heavy metals in children's foods.