Estimation of Some Main and Secondary Mineral Elements in Palm Fruits Growing in Different Regions of Libya

الملخص

Date palms are exposed to heavy metal contamination, which is dangerous due to its stability and bioaccumulation. The sources of heavy metal contamination in dates are numerous, including environmental pollution from soil, air, and water, as well as agricultural practices such as the use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers. This negatively affects the nutritional properties of dates. Consequently, consuming dates that contain higher levels of heavy metals and their presence in high concentrations harms consumer health. In this study, the concentration of some essential and trace metals in date varieties traded in local markets, randomly selected from the markets of the city of Bani Walid, was determined. The elements (K, Na, Fe, Pb, Cd) were estimated for five Libyan date varieties: (Dakkla, Jafah, Dakkla Waddan, Saidi Date, Apple Date, and Mecca Nucleus Date). Using the atomic absorption and flame method, and comparing the results of this study with the permissible limits set by the World Health Organization and the Food and Nutrition Organization, as well as previous studies, potassium was found to be the predominant mineral. The results were graphically plotted and statistically analyzed. Significant differences were observed in the sodium (Na) and potassium (K) ratios among the studied date varieties. Iron was present in all five date varieties and did not exceed the permissible limit according to the World Health Organization and the Food and Agricultural Organization. Lead was completely absent in the studied date samples. Pearson correlation analysis revealed significant correlations between potassium and sodium in a positive direct relationship, and between cadmium and potassium in a negative inverse relationship.