Comparison of Heavy Metal Levels of Organic and Conventional Milk and Milk Products in Turkey

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This study aimed to determine and compare aluminum (Al), arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), and lead (Pb) levels in conventional and organic milk, white cheese, and butter samples which are sold in the markets of Turkey. Within the scope of the study, totally 72 samples (36 for organic, and 36 for conventional) were collected, and analyzed between March 2010 and February 2011. After the samples were burned by microwave burning, element measurements were performed on atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS) device. As a result of the study, on the 49 samples (29 conventional, 20 organic) of the 72 collected product, element levels were determined above the limit of detection (LOD) (0.02 ppm). Pb and Al were the most common elements above the LOD. However, milk samples with a Pb level above the LOD still remained below the limit reported by the Turkish Food Codex Regulation for Contaminants. Since Turkish Food Codex Regulation does not have legal limits for Al, As, Cd and Pb for dairy products (cheese and butter), it was accepted as safe in terms of Al, As, Cd and Pb according to food limits in Turkish Food Codex and ADI values of FAO / WHO.