Chemical and microbial risk assessment of wild edible plants and flowers
2024
Risk Assessment of Wild Edible Plants and Flowers
Sample size: 142
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Carpena Maria, Prieto Miguel A., Trząskowska Monika
Primary Institution: Universidade de Vigo
Hypothesis
What are the chemical and microbial risks associated with wild edible plants (WEPs) and flowers?
Conclusion
The study found that wild edible plants can contain harmful substances, including heavy metals and pathogens, which pose health risks.
Supporting Evidence
- Wild edible plants are valuable for nutrition but can also contain harmful compounds.
- The study identified several chemical and microbial hazards in commonly consumed wild plants.
- Basil was found to be particularly prone to microbial contamination.
- Heavy metals were analyzed using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry.
Takeaway
Some wild plants we eat can be good for us, but they might also have bad stuff in them that can make us sick.
Methodology
The study used data collection from EFSA and EU databases, microbiological testing, and heavy metals analysis to assess risks.
Limitations
Some outcomes are not presented in this report as a scientific article is ongoing.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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