MINERALS AND HEAVY METALS CONTENT STATUS IN SOME FRUITS IN INDIA

Abstract

Fruits and vegetables are specially valued in human diet as these contain micronutrients, fiber, potassium, vitamin C, which work as antioxidants within the body as well as bio-functional components. Minerals and heavy metals content of ten tropical fruits namely Sapodilla, Stone-apple, Indian- gooseberry, Guava, Bilimbi, Elephant-apple, Tamarind fruit, Mango, Litchi, Strawberry were determined according to standard methods to address their concentration. Heavy metals, which constitute a major public health concern, are known to accumulate in food and fruits during plants growth. Fruits which are readily consumed because of their characteristic sweet taste and potential health benefits stand a major risk of heavy metal intoxication Results of this study suggest that the selected tropical fruits are rich source of minerals. Tamarind fruit is an ample source of iron, sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium. Highest amount of manganese found in Mango, 06.16 ± 1.19 mg. Highest amounts of copper, zinc and sodium found in Guava, 19.30 ± 2.12 mg, 2.07 ± 0.15 mg and 62.78 ± 1.24 mg, respectively. Highest amount of iron, potassium, calcium and magnesium found in Tamarind fruit, 2.80 ± 1.43 mg, 621.00 ± 3.26 mg, 75.00 ± 2.41 mg and 90.00 ± 1.80 mg, respectively. However, heavy metals namely arsenic, cadmium, lead, mercury and chromium content of ten tropical fruits were determined to assess their concentration as these days rarely any food item is spared from the malicious practice of food adulteration. The consequences of this study indicate that these tropical fruits could be potentially used in alleviating micronutrients deficiency especially for the rural populace as a potent source of minerals and the daily intake of heavy metals through fresh fruits may not constitute a health hazard for consumers because the concentrations were below than the recommended daily intake of these metals but consumers should be aware of taking fresh fruit as these amounts can be harmful if the fruits are taken in large quantities.