PJB-2024-524
Assessing the health risks posed to humans by vegetables due to the impact of fertilizers on nickel and copper accumulation
Mehwish Amjad
Abstract
Although fertilizers have been utilized for centuries to support sustainable crop growth, their widespread use has raised environmental concerns regarding human exposure to toxins through soil contamination. This study aims to assess the impact of organic and inorganic fertilizer application and wastewater treatment on soil and its subsequent effect on the accumulation of copper and nickel in spinach (Spinacia oleracea), Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea), carrot (Daucus carota), Raddish (Raphanus Sativus,), Pea (Pisum sativum) and Potato (Solanum tuberosum). The concentration of copper (Cu) and nickel (Ni) was found to be the highest in treatment T8, where poultry manure was combined with wastewater for application. During the second growing year, Daucus carota (carrot) exhibited the highest increase in nickel (Ni) uptake and Spineca oleracea (Spinach) exhibited the highest increase in copper (Cu), under treatment T8. This was observed among six commonly cultivated vegetables subjected to 12 different treatments. Continued, prolonged application of wastewater and fertilizers has been observed to lead to elevated concentrations of copper (Cu) and nickel (Ni) in both soil and vegetables. Consequently, individuals consuming these vegetables may experience increased Cr exposure, potentially posing health risks. This precautionary measure ensures that potential contaminants, such as copper and nickel, are monitored closely to protect both soil quality and the safety of the food supply chain. Establishing clear laws and regulatory controls are essential steps to mitigate agricultural soil pollution stopping from the application of wastewater and fertilizers.
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