Assessment of inorganic contaminants and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in teas

Abstract

Tea is one of the world's oldest beverages, traditionally consumed due to their biological properties, such as the antioxidant activity given by polyphenols. However, studies have reported the presence of potentially toxic substances in tea, such as inorganic contaminants and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (HPAs). Since the consumption of tea is growing in Brazil and data regarding the quality of the product marketed domestically are still scarce, the aim of this project is develop and validate analytical methods for determination of inorganic contaminants and PAHs in teas and evaluate the presence of these compounds in products available in the Brazilian market. In the case of arsenic, a method for arsenic speciation will also be developed. Additionally, intake estimates studies of these contaminants will be performed to assess the safety of this type of product. The contaminants will be analyzed by ICP-MS and HPLC-FLD. This project also includes the development of a new line of research related to arsenic speciation, using LC-ICP-MS technique. This study is very important, since some heavy metals can be accumulated in the body over time, and inorganic contaminants and PAHs may present carcinogenic potential. (AU)