Accumulation of heavy metals in food products from territories adjacent to the Alaverdi copper‐chemical combine, Armenia

Aim. Determination of heavy metals (Cu, Zn, Pb) concentration in plantand animal‐based food products (FP) in locations adjacent to the Alaverdi Copper Chemical Combine (CCC).
Analysis has been undertaken of local FP of plant and animal origin (eggs, milk, quince, Jerusalem artichoke, red apple, medlar, persimmon and potato) collected within 5,000–8,000 m from the Alaverdi CCC (villages of Sanahin, Odzun and Akhtala). Concentrations of Cu, Zn and Pb were determined using atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS extraction & ISO‐8288).
Analyses revealed that Pb levels comply with permissible standards, whereas Cu and Zn concentrations exceed allowable limits.
The combine’s negative impact on the environment persists even at distance of 8,000 m.
Contamination of FP with heavy metals may lead to adverse ecological and biological consequences.
The findings indicate that FP of plant and animal origin in the vicinity of the Alaverdi CCC are contaminated with heavy metals (Zn, Cu). Average Cu and Zn concentrations in some products exceed the maximum levels set by international standards. The elevated levels of copper and zinc at distances of 5,000–8,000 m from Alaverdi CCC present a health risk to the population with potential adverse effects from FP consumption. These results can be used for ecological monitoring in other mining and metallurgical regions.

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