Analysis of toxic and radiotoxic heavy metals in some cereal grains consumed in Türkiye and assessment of potential health risk

This study analyzed the concentrations of toxic (Cr, Co, Cu, etc.) and radiotoxic (U, Th) heavy metals (HMs) in 40 commercial cereal samples consumed in Türkiye by using an energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometer. Health risks caused by ingestion of cereal samples were assessed using the hazard index (HI), annual effective dose (E Eff ), and the excess lifetime cancer risk (LCR) models. The average concentrations (mg/kg dry weight) of HMs analyzed in the samples were 2.7 (Cr), 6.4 (Co), 7.9 (Cu), 49.8 (Fe), 49.4 (Mn), 7.6 (Ni), 40.4 (Zn), 1.0 (U), and 1.4 (Th). Wheat and maize showed HI > 1, indicating potential concern for consumers. The total annual effective dose exceeded global averages primarily due to Th in cereal samples. Findings highlight the need for monitoring and consumer guidance. • Non-carcinogenic health risk caused by heavy metals (HMs) in cereals was assessed • Potential radiological health risk caused by radiotoxic HMs in cereals was assessed • Hazard index values for HMs in wheat and maize were above the safety limit of 1 • The annual effective dose due to 238 U and 232 Th in cereals was above the world average