Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
Journal of Food Composition and Analysis, cilt.151, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
Heavy metals are among the most persistent and harmful environmental pollutants due to their indegradability, bioaccumulation capabilities, and biogrowth in food chains. This study evaluates the transfer and accumulation of heavy metals across the soil-fodder-milk continuum in semi-urban agricultural systems. This study also aims to provide a comprehensive risk assessment framework for addressing roadside ecological risks, which are common in developing countries. The samples were digested using a microwave-assisted acid digestion and analysed using Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS). All metals in the milk samples were below the accepted values of Zn (1.99–3.16 mg/L), Fe (0.16–0.32 mg/L), Mn (0.01–0.30 mg/L), Cu (0.0001–0.0087 mg/L), Pb (0.001–0.0098 mg/L), Cd (0.0006–0.0092 mg/L), Co (0.0002–0.0080 mg/L), and Mo (0.0001–0.0040 mg/L). Soil quality assessment using the Pollution Load Index (PLI) confirmed minimal contamination (PLI<1), though elevated Zn and Pb near roadways indicated traffic-related contributions. Fodder crops exhibited limited metal uptake, with Bioconcentration Factors (BCF) below 1 for all elements. Daily Intake of Metals (DIM) and Health Risk Index (HRI) values for grazing cattle were within safe thresholds (HRI<1). Spatial analysis revealed significant site-specific variations (p < 0.001), particularly near roadsides. The findings offer important reference value for ensuring regional agricultural product quality and safety.