Analysis of trace elements in various types of Iranian and imported rice using the neutron activation method

The body absorbs trace elements from food, which can have positive and negative effects depending on their type and amount. The study aimed to determine the amount of trace elements found in different varieties of Iranian rice and imported varieties. The concentration of trace elements in rice samples was measured by neutron activation analysis and inductively coupled plasma (ICP-AES). Elements concentrations (mg.kg-1) were determined for aluminum (2.92-9.16), arsenic (0.064-0.156), bromine (0.24-5.20), calcium (102-981), chlorine (132-323 ), chromium (ND -20.4), lead (ND-0.232), cadmium (0.010-0.115), scandium (0.001-0.007), magnesium (262-519), manganese (2.97-18.50), sodium (3.99-14.30), mercury (ND- 0.002), zinc (2.62-23.60). This study found that Indian rice contains higher levels of bromine, calcium, and sodium, while Pakistani rice contains higher amounts of aluminum, chlorine, lead, and mercury. Shirodi rice is known to have higher levels of arsenic and magnesium, Tarem Hashemi rice has been found to contain higher amounts of chromium, manganese, and zinc, and cadmium is found in Sadri rice. However, the amount of toxic elements in all types of rice does not pose a significant threat to human health.