Detection of Heavy Metals in Greenhouse Solanum lycopersicum: A Food Safety Assessment

Abstract

   This study investigates the presence of heavy metals in greenhouse-grown Solanum lycopersicum  (tomatoes) collected from 17 farms in west of Tripoli during the planting season of 2024. Tomatoes are widely consumed and crucial to the agricultural economy. The risk of contamination from heavy metals due to agricultural practices and environmental exposure is a public health concern. Tomato samples were collected, both washed and unwashed, to assess external contamination, particularly from pesticide residues. The concentration of several heavy metals including arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), cobalt (Co), chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), and mercury (Hg) was measured. Results revealed detectable levels of certain heavy metals, particularly chromium, cadmium, and nickel, in unwashed samples, with some reduction observed after washing. Notably, elevated levels of Cr and Ni were found in specific locations such as Joudaim and Alzawiya, suggesting possible environmental or agricultural sources of contamination. The levels of other elements, like Pb, Zn, and Hg, were consistently below detection limits across all samples. The findings highlight the importance of routine monitoring of heavy metals in vegetables, especially in greenhouse farming, and underscore the role of washing in reducing surface contaminants. This study contributes valuable data toward food safety assurance and environmental health risk assessments in the region.