Trace Determination of Cr(VI) and Total Cr in Fruit and Vegetable Samples: Utilizing Monte Carlo Simulation for Risk Assessment in an Iranian Mining Area

Abstract

Abstract In light of food safety concerns, accurately determining Chromium (VI) concentrations in fruits and vegetables is imperative. Due to their complex matrices, achieving precise and efficient Cr(VI) measurement remains challenging, leading to uncertainty in dietary intake data. This study aimed to assess the Cr(VI) concentration in apples, grapes cultivated in farmlands and carrots available in local markets. An alkaline extraction method was employed at 80°C for 5 minutes, utilizing a solution containing 50 mM EDTA and dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction (DLLME). Apples and grapes were collected from two distinct case studies: Case Study A, located near Lead and Zinc factories, and Case Study B, situated at a significant distance from mining sites. The average total Cr and Cr(VI) concentrations in apples from the contaminated Case Study A were 438.4 ± 157 µg kg⁻¹ and < LOD, respectively. For grapes, were 450.265 ± 65.530 µg kg⁻¹ and 70.303 ± 18.208 µg kg⁻¹. Conversely, the lowest average concentrations of Cr and Cr(VI) were observed in grapes, with values of 314.27 ± 14.41 µg kg⁻¹ and 52.06 ± 2.79 µg kg⁻¹, respectively, attributed to Case Study B. In the case of apples, the values were 241.65 ± 11.466 µg kg⁻¹ for Cr and < LOD for Cr(VI). For carrots available in the markets, the total Cr and Cr(VI) concentrations were found to be 2493.159 ± 280.57 µg kg⁻¹ and 326.32 ± 65.89 µg kg⁻¹, respectively. The assessment of potential health risks indicated that the intake of carrots and grapes increases the local population's carcinogenic Cr(VI) risks.