Heavy Metals Residue in Cultivated Mango Samples from Iran

Background: Heavy metals contaminations are recognized as the serious risk to our environment. The aim of the present study was to analyze heavy metals residue in cultivated mango samples from Iran. Methods: Totally, 72 mango samples were randomly collected among six different mango genotypes cultivated in Southern Iran from June to July 2015. Lead, chromium, cadmium, and arsenic were determined using an atomic absorption spectrometer. Analysis of variance was performed with SAS 9.0. Descriptive statistics, multivariate analysis, and Duncan multiple range tests were done with a significance level of p < 0.05. Results: Measurement of heavy metals in all the mango samples showed various level ranges of lead (0.008-0.05 ppm), chromium (0.01-0.1 ppm), cadmium (0.002-0.014 ppm), and arsenic (0.01-0.04 ppm). Heavy metal levels were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in green mango samples comparing to ripe ones. However, no significant relationship (p > 0.05) was seen between heavy metals residue and variety in genotypes of mango samples. Conclusion: The average amount of heavy metals residue in mango samples found in the current study were generally below the maximum acceptable levels indicating acceptable safety of these products.