Multi-Target Element-Based Screening of Maize Varieties with Low Accumulation of Heavy Metals (HMs) and Metalloids: Uptake, Transport, and Health Risks

Mitigating heavy metals (HMs) contamination and ensuring the safe production of crops is paramount importance for sustainable agriculture development. The purpose current field plot study was to select maize varieties with low HMs metalloids in their edible parts but high accumulation other parts. cadmium (Cd), arsenic (As), lead (Pb), chromium (Cr) contents 11 were measured by atomic absorption spectrometry, plant growth bioconcentration factors (BFs) examined. Furthermore, average daily intake (ADDi) grains calculated assess associated health risks. results revealed that variety TZ23 minimally impacted metalloids. all tested contained Cr, As, Pb accordance National Food Safety Standards (NFSSs, GB2762-2017, ≤0.1 mg·kg−1), while Cd concentration QJN1, LSCR, JN20 0.084 mg·kg−1, 0.094 0.077 respectively, NFSSs. translocation factor (TF) Cr found be less than 1. However, TF grain LYN9, JYN9, QJN3 exceeded For HNY21, TZ23, Cd, Pb, stems/leaves Cluster analysis HNY21 had lowest capacity four HMs. Importantly, exhibited a both SKN11 capacities As. Health risk (HR) indices different age groups displayed an overall trend children > elderly young adult. Among metalloids, pose greatest risks intake. Variety posed significant HR due chronic toxicity. This provides scientific basis multi-element pollution control screening suitable cultivation mining areas remediation HMs-contaminated soils.