Aida Šukalić, Jelena Kuzman Katica, Svetlana Hadžić, Alma Mičijević, Dženita Alibegić, Sanela Nazdrajić

Glasilo Future Volumen 8 broj 4 prosinac 2025. / Gazette Future Volume 8 number 4 December 2025

Objavljeno 30. prosinca 2025. godine. / Published on Dec 30, 2025.

https://doi.org/10.32779/gf.8.4.1

ISSN 2623-6575 (Online)
UDK 63

Glasilo_Future_Volumen_8_broj_4_prosinac_2025.pdf

Izvorni znanstveni rad (original scientific paper)

Naslov/Title

Assessment of Potential Non-Carcinogenic Risk from Heavy Metal Intake through Swiss chard (Beta vulgaris subsp. cicla) Consumption in the Mostar Region

Str./Pp. 01–13

Autori(ce)/Authors

Aida Šukalić, Jelena Kuzman Katica, Svetlana Hadžić, Alma Mičijević, Dženita Alibegić, Sanela Nazdrajić

Abstract

This study evaluated the potential non-carcinogenic health risks for adults and children associated with the intake of heavy metals (Cu, As, Cd, Pb) through Swiss chard (Beta vulgaris subsp. cicla) consumption in the Mostar region, Bosnia and Herzegovina. The concentrations of heavy metals in Swiss chard (Beta vulgaris subsp. cicla) were within the permitted national limits (Cu: 1.06–2.8 mg/kg, As: 0.004–0.014 mg/kg, Cd: 0.025–0.051 mg/kg, Pb: <LOQ–0.047 mg/kg). No significant differences were observed among samples from different market locations. Risk assessment, based on body weight, intake rates, and reference doses, indicated low exposure levels in adults (Hazard Quotient, HQ < 1). Children showed higher Estimated Daily Intake (EDI) and HQ values, but these also remained below the safety threshold (HQ < 1). Although all concentrations complied with regulatory standards, the comparatively higher intake in children may indicate potential long-term health concerns, especially when cumulative exposure from other dietary sources (cereals, fruits, vegetables, water) is considered. These results underline the importance of ongoing monitoring and preventive strategies to reduce potential heavy metal exposure, particularly in sensitive population groups.

Key words: Swiss chard (Beta vulgaris subsp. cicla), heavy metals, Hazard Quotient, Estimated Daily Intake.

Preuzimanje/Download

Glasilo_Future_Volumen_8_broj_4_prosinac_2025_
Sukalic_Kuzman_Katica_Hadzic_Micijevic_Alibegic_Nazdrajic.pdf

Citiranje/Citation

Šukalić, A., Kuzman Katica, J., Hadžić, S., Mičijević, A., Alibegić, Dž., Nazdrajić, S. (2025). Assessment of Potential Non-Carcinogenic Risk from Heavy Metal Intake through Swiss chard (Beta vulgaris subsp. cicla) Consumption in the Mostar Region. Glasilo Future, 8(4), 01–13. https://doi.org/10.32779/gf.8.4.1