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Occurrence and Health Risk Assessment of Cadmium Accumulation in Three Tricholoma Mushroom Species Collected from Wild Habitats of Central and Coastal Croatia

Summary

This research examined how three types of wild mushrooms in Croatia accumulate cadmium, a toxic heavy metal, from the soil. While the mushrooms were found to effectively absorb cadmium, the levels present did not pose a health risk to consumers. Impact on everyday life: – Helps ensure the safety of wild mushroom foraging and consumption – Provides data for environmental monitoring of toxic metal pollution – Contributes to food safety guidelines for wild mushroom consumption – Identifies potential bioindicators for environmental contamination monitoring

Background

Cadmium (Cd) is a toxic metal found in trace amounts in Earth’s crust, with an average soil concentration of 0.36 mg/kg. Its presence results from both natural processes and anthropogenic activities like urbanization, industrialization, and agricultural production. Mushrooms can effectively absorb Cd from soil, making them potential bioindicators of environmental contamination. Cd is considered carcinogenic and can adversely affect kidneys, bones, cardiovascular system and immune system.

Objective

The study aimed to determine Cd concentration in three Tricholoma mushroom species and their soil substrates, compare Cd distribution in mushroom caps versus stipes, evaluate the mushrooms’ potential as Cd bioaccumulators, and assess potential health risks associated with consuming these potentially Cd-contaminated mushrooms.

Results

The highest mean Cd concentration was found in T. portentosum (cap: 0.98 mg/kg; stipe: 0.72 mg/kg), followed by T. columbetta (cap: 0.96 mg/kg; stipe: 0.73 mg/kg) and T. terreum (cap: 0.81 mg/kg; stipe: 0.63 mg/kg). Bioconcentration factor values exceeded 1, indicating these species effectively accumulate Cd. Central sampling locations showed higher Cd levels compared to coastal sites. The daily intake of metals and health risk index values were below concerning thresholds.

Conclusion

The study found that while the selected Tricholoma species are effective Cd accumulators, the health risk assessment indicated no potential health risks associated with their consumption based on observed Cd levels. However, continuous monitoring of toxic heavy metals in wild edible mushrooms across Croatia is recommended.
  • Published in:Journal of Fungi,
  • Study Type:Environmental Monitoring Study,
  • Source: 10.3390/jof8070685
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