Metallic Contamination Problem in a Pasta Production Plant

Authors: BEDİA DEMİRÖZÜ, İLBİLGE SALDAMLI

Abstract: In this study, we aimed to determine the levels of lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), arsenic (As) and mercury (Hg) in pasta samples. These metals were determined from samples of wheat, semolina and pasta taken during their processing stages after taking into account the critical production steps that may affect metallic contamination. Determination of heavy metal contents was realized by an atomic absorption spectrophotometer and the stage of sample preparation prior to measurement by using a microwave digestion system in a closed vessel. Variations in the heavy metal content of the samples taken during the production of pasta were found to be significant from the statistical viewpoint (p < 0.05). In general, a decrease was observed in metallic content during semolina production and an increase was observed during the transition from semolina to pasta. The heavy metal contents of samples studied were compared with those reported by other researchers in different countries and similar values were indicated.

Keywords: Lead, Cadmium, Arsenic, Mercury, Pasta.

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