Divine Aleru is an accomplished biochemist and researcher with a specialized background in environmental toxicology, focusing on the impacts of heavy metals on human health. With deep-rooted expertise in microbiome signatures analysis, Divine seamlessly blends rigorous scientific training with her passion for deciphering the intricate relationships between environmental exposures and the human microbiome. Her career is distinguished by a commitment to advancing integrative health interventions, leveraging cutting-edge microbiome research to illuminate how toxic metals shape biological systems. Driven by curiosity and innovation, Divine is dedicated to translating complex environmental findings into actionable insights that improve individual and public health outcomes. 
Divine Aleru is an accomplished biochemist and researcher with a specialized background in environmental toxicology, focusing on the impacts of heavy metals on human health. With deep-rooted expertise in microbiome signatures analysis, Divine seamlessly blends rigorous scientific training with her passion for deciphering the intricate relationships between environmental exposures and the human microbiome. Her career is distinguished by a commitment to advancing integrative health interventions, leveraging cutting-edge microbiome research to illuminate how toxic metals shape biological systems. Driven by curiosity and innovation, Divine is dedicated to translating complex environmental findings into actionable insights that improve individual and public health outcomes. What was issued?
The review article focuses on the risks associated with lead contamination in the environment and food chain. It examines how lead (Pb) enters the food chain and impacts human health, with specific attention to its effects on children and vulnerable populations. The article outlines various remediation methods for managing lead contamination, including biological, chemical, and nanotechnological approaches.
Who is affected?
Populations most at risk from lead exposure include children, pregnant women, and workers in industries like mining, smelting, and painting. Children absorb a higher percentage of lead than adults, making them especially vulnerable to neurodevelopmental issues. Food manufacturers and regulators are also affected, as they must monitor and control lead levels in food products. Communities near industrial sites or contaminated agricultural areas are at higher risk.
Most important findings
Lead is persistent in the environment and bioaccumulates in plants, animals, and humans. It enters the food chain through contaminated soil, water, and air. Plants absorb lead, especially in contaminated soils, and some crops, such as leafy vegetables, fruits, and grains, show significant levels of contamination. Exposure to lead can lead to cognitive impairments in children and cardiovascular and renal problems in adults. Regulatory bodies have set maximum limits for lead in food, but JECFA concluded no level of lead is completely safe. Remediation approaches, including soil washing, phytoremediation, microbial remediation, and nano-adsorbents, help reduce lead bioavailability and prevent further contamination.
Key implications
The findings emphasize the need for strict regulations on lead in food production, particularly for vulnerable groups like children and pregnant women. Food manufacturers must implement rigorous monitoring to prevent lead contamination. Regulatory agencies should enforce existing standards and support research into sustainable remediation techniques. Sustainable remediation, such as microbial-assisted phytoremediation and nano-adsorbents, ensures the safe production of food and protects public health.
Citation
Kumar, A., Kumar, A., MMS, P., Chaturvedi, A. K., Shabnam, A. A., Subrahmanyam, G., Mondal, R., Gupta, D. K., Malyan, S. K., Kumar, S. S., Khan, S. A., & Yadav, K. K. (2020). Lead Toxicity: Health Hazards, Influence on Food Chain, and Sustainable Remediation Approaches. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 17(7), 2179. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17072179
Lead is a neurotoxic heavy metal with no safe exposure level. It contaminates food, consumer goods and drinking water, causing cognitive deficits, birth defects and cardiovascular disease. HMTC’s rigorous lead testing applies ALARA principles to protect infants and consumers and to prepare brands for tightening regulations.
