Trace elements in plant-based meat available in Brazil: Total content, bioaccessibility and risk assessment

Abstract

There is limited data on trace elements in plant-based foods, especially meat analogues. This study assessed the presence of Al, Cr, Co, Ni, As, Se, Mo, Cd, Sb, Ba, Hg, and Pb in plant-based products intended as meat substitutes using ICP-MS. In addition, estimated exposure and bioaccessibility (%B) of these elements, following the INFOGEST 2.0 protocol were also evaluated. Al, Cr, Co, Ni, Se, Mo, and Ba were found in all samples, while Cd, Pb, Hg, and As remained at low levels. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) grouped the samples into seven categories based on trace element profiles. Exposure estimates indicated no concern for adult consumption, though further research is recommended for children. In five samples, aluminum exceeded 100 % of the Tolerable Weekly Intake (TWI), while cobalt and nickel surpassed 50 % of the Health-Based Guidance Value (HBGV) and Tolerable Daily Intake (TDI), respectively, in one sample. The Margin of Exposure (MOE) for lead ranged from 1 to 10 in thirteen samples. The study also found that trace element bioaccessibility varies depending on the food’s composition. These unprecedented results reinforce the need for further research to better understand the potential risks associated with the consumption of plant-based meat substitutes, especially for child consumers.