Published Paper Details:

The bioaccumulation of arsenic in edible plants poses significant environmental and public health concerns, particularly in industrialized regions such as Hatti in Raichur, Karnataka. This study investigates arsenic contamination levels in various edible plants grown in the vicinity of the Hatti industrial area. Samples were collected from multiple locations around the industrial zone, and arsenic concentrations in plant tissues were analyzed using Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES). Results revealed elevated arsenic levels in plant samples, with variation observed among different plant species. Factors influencing arsenic uptake, including soil properties, plant species, and environmental conditions, were examined to elucidate bioaccumulation mechanisms. Specifically focusing on pigeon pea plants, suspicion of arsenic presence prompted extraction using an alkaline leaching method with temperature assistance, following a modified wet digestion approach. Initial chemical tests confirmed arsenic presence, with subsequent instrumental analysis via ICP-OES yielding the following observations (mg/kg): N1t (0.098), N2t (0.094), N3t (0.097), N4t (0.098), F1t (0.096), F2t (0.048), F3t (0.089), and F4t (0.092). Although arsenic concentrations in pigeon pea plants were below toxicity limits, ingestion of larger quantities could pose health risks. Acute oral ingestion of arsenic can result in gastrointestinal irritation, decreased blood cell production, abnormal heart rhythm, blood vessel damage, and impaired nerve function. Chronic exposure may lead to skin changes, skin cancer, and various internal cancers, along with potential impacts on diabetes, blood pressure, reproductive health, and cognitive function. This study contributes to understanding arsenic bioaccumulation in edible plants.