Cadmium, Lead and Chromium contents in rice (champa) produced in the Mobarakeh County in 2009

Since، rice is the main source of food for the majority of people in the world، including Iran، determine of concentration and distribution of heavy metals in rice plants is important. The aim of this study was to determine cadmium، chromium and zinc concentrations in rice produced of the Mobarakeh County. Sampling was conducted based on stratified random method from 10 cities and villages. Three samples were taken from any place and then mixed together. The samples were prepared based on ASTM (2000) method and the concentrations of cadmium، lead and chromium were determined. In order to perform calculations، describe and analyze of the data، Excel and SPSS 15 software’s and T-Test statistical test was used. The mean concentration of cadmium in samples was 0. 178 ± 0. 048 mg / kg. Cadmium concentration in the 40 percent of combined samples was equal to or greater than the standard rate. Average concentrations of lead and chromium in the samples were 0. 176 ± 0. 056 and 0. 148 ± 0. 055 mg/kg dry weight respectively. Lead and chromium concentrations were less than the FAO/WHO standards in all samples and this difference was statistically significant (P <0. 001). Discussion and Only in few cases، the concentration of cadmium was upper than standard rate but lead and chromium concentration in all samples were below standards. Weekly intake of cadmium، chromium and lead were below the acceptable or tolerable levels recommended by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives. So، the serious risk does not threat the public health.