Evaluation of health hazards linked to heavy metal concentrations in date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) fruits from Basrah, Iraq

This study aims to determine the levels of heavy metals, namely lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd) and chromium (Cr), in date palm fruits (Barhi cultivar) grown in the Basrah Governorate, Iraq. It also assesses the health risks associated with the consumption of date fruits, including estimated dietary intake (EDI), hazard quotients (HQ), hazard index (HI) and cancer risk (CR) indices. Fruit samples were collected from four sites, namely, Al-Qurna, Shatt Al-Arab, Abu Al-Khaseeb and Zubair, during different ripening stages, such as Khalal (Bisr), Rutab and Tamar. Results demonstrate that the concentrations of heavy metals in date palm fruits increased as the fruits ripened. Moreover, the mean values of Cd and Cr were below the maximum allowable levels (MAL) set by WHO/FAO in all sites and at all ripening stages. In contrast, the Pb levels exceeded the MAL at all sites and ripening stages. The results of the health risk assessment indicated that the EDI of Pb, Cd and Cr through date consumption (100 g per person per day) was below the provisional maximum tolerable daily intake across all examined sites. The HQ and HI values were below 1 except for HI in the Zubair site. The CR index confirmed that no carcinogenic threats are associated with the consumption of date palm fruits in Basrah Governorate. This study provides valuable insights for improving food safety and protecting public health in Iraq.