Assessment of arsenic in Mangifera Indica (Mango) contaminated by artificial ripening agent: Target hazard quotient (THQ), health risk index (HRI) and estimated daily intake (EDI)

Abstract

The current study was based on an analysis of the arsenic (As) content of various mango varieties that were collected from Abbottabad local markets. The As concentration in the mangoes peel, pulp, and surface was assessed using UV–Visible Spectrophotometer. Health risk was evaluated using the target hazard quotient (THQ), the health risk index (HRI), and the estimated daily intake (EDI). In comparison to the surface and pulp, the mean As content in the peel was much higher. Fajri had the highest mean concentration in the peel, whereas Langra had the lowest. The pulp had mean concentrations in Chaunsa was 0.32 ± 0.69 mg/kg, in Langra 0.88 ± 1.63 mg/kg, in Anwar Ratol 1.74 ± 3.07 mg/kg and 0.64 ± 1.22 mg/kg in Fajri. The higher As concentration in the pulp of certain varieties than the permissible limit (1.0 mg/kg) is alarming. All of the mango types had THQ and HRI values less than 1, indicating that they are within acceptable limits and that no adverse health consequences are anticipated. The standards governing food safety need to be improved, and because CaC2 has harmful qualities, it should be avoided in the future.

Keywords

• Arsenic
• Artificial ripening
• Calcium carbide
• Carcinogenic
• Health risk
• Mangos