Systematic Assessment of Toxic Metals in Children's Cereals and Snacks From Erbil, Iraq: Health and Carcinogenic Risk Evaluation

Children are particularly vulnerable to toxic metal exposure through diet, yet data from Iraq are scarce. This study systematically assessed heavy metal contamination and associated health risks in 40 children's cereal and snack products collected from markets in Erbil, Kurdistan Region of Iraq. Samples were digested (HNO₃/H₂O₂, microwave-assisted) and analyzed for Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd, As, Pb, and Cr using ICP-OES and ETAAS, with recoveries of 95%-105% and LOD/LOQ ranges of 0.002-0.05/0.006-0.15 mg/kg. Total As was quantified (speciation not determined). Concentrations (mg/kg) ranged from 0.009-0.05 for Cd to 15.0 for Zn. Arsenic and lead frequently exceeded international limits (EU 2023/915 and Codex standards). Health-risk modeling (USEPA) indicated hazard index values > 1 in 35%-45% of samples, with As and Pb as primary contributors to both non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risk (TCR = 9.8 × 10^-5-4.7 × 10^-4). Principal component analysis explained 71% of variance, distinguishing products by cereal type and country of origin. Findings revealed significant exposure potential and highlight the need for food safety monitoring, source apportionment studies, and stricter import control.