Determination of Cd, Cr and Pb in milk and in cattle feed in Brazil

Abstract

The contamination of milk is one of the major health concerns because it is largely consumed by population, and the huge extension of the country limits the adequate inspection of this product. Although scientific studies have indicated the occurrence of milk contamination with toxic trace elements, no government policy for the detection and prevention of these components has been available. This study aimed at investigating the occurrence of lead, cadmium and chromium in samples of raw milk and processed milk in an attempt to identify the possible sources of contamination. Both the in natura raw milk and the processed milk evidenced the contamination with these toxic trace elements, and usually at levels above those permitted by Brazilian legislation. The most probable contamination source was the mineral salt employed for feeding cattle.