Trace Elements and Radionuclides in Brazil Nuts from the Brazilian Amazon

Abstract

The Brazil nut tree (Bertholletia excelsa) is an accumulating plant and, as such, absorbs metals from the soil according to the different geographic regions in which it is found. In this context, some Brazil nuts can exceed the safe level of certain trace elements and thus become toxic to consumers. To provide risk assessment information, the aim of this study was to evaluate trace elements and radionuclides found in Brazil nuts from the Brazilian Amazon. Trace elements were evaluated using ICP-MS, however As, Ca, Cr, Mg, Hg and Pb were not detected. The levels of Fe, Zn and Ti were within the maximum levels stipulated for Dietary Reference Intake. The results provide preliminary data concerning the surveillance of antimony (Sb) in the samples analyzed. Further studies are necessary to evaluate the bioavailability of Sb and other metals, and the Se mechanisms for detoxifying Sb. Concerning radionuclides, the committed effective dose was below the established limits by UNSCEAR (2000). In conclusion, the levels of trace elements and radionuclides in the samples did not levels that could be considered toxic to human health.