The aim of this study was to evaluate the concentrations of Pb, Cu, Zn, Rb, Cs, Sr and Ba in the muscles of red deer that were hunted in two regions of Poland (south-western and north-eastern). The data obtained were evaluated with regards to benefits and potential risk to consumers’ health. Samples for the investigations were collected in 2008 and 2009 from 50 female red deer, and the metal concentrations were determined by using the inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometric (ICP-MS) method. The mean concentrations of Pb did not differ statistically between regions and were equal to that permitted for farm animals. The results of this study support the conclusion that the meat of the analysed animals does not pose a risk of lead intoxication. Statistically higher mean concentrations of Cu and Zn were found in the muscles of red deer from the south-western region (namely, 2.99 and 25.78 mg kg−1) than those in animals from north-eastern Poland (namely, 2.61 and 23.39 mg kg−1 wet weight). In terms of human nutritional needs, the meat of red deer can be considered as a good source of Cu and Zn. Furthermore, Rb, Cs, Sr and Ba concentrations did not differ statistically between regions. Their mean concentrations were 4.50, 0.09, 0.16 and 0.31 mg kg−1 wet weight, respectively. Although high Cs, Sr and Ba concentrations were found, the meat of red deer does not pose a risk for adult consumers. Only high Ba content may potentially result in negative health effects for children.
Human or animal hair is considered to be a good indicator of the content of bioelements or toxic elements in human and animal organism. Its analysis is a good alternative for the arduous obtaining blood or biopsy samples. The aim of the performed research was the assessment of some chosen bioelements in the organism of European bison on the basis of their analysis in hair. The investigation material comprised hair samples obtained from 22 animals. All animals were divided into groups according to gender (males, females) and age (calves up to one year of age and animals older than 2 years). Samples were mineralized in nitric acid, under pressure in the microwave apparatus. The content of phosphorus, sulphur, magnesium, iron, titanium and vanadium were determined in hair samples. The content of these elements was determined using the ICP-AES method in accredited laboratory. The accuracy of determinations was tested using the standard reference material.The mean content of phosphorus in hair amounted to 245.14 mg · kg , SD 2.097. In case of these elements, differences depending on gender and age were statistically insignificant. Mean content of sulphur in the European bison hair amounted to 3.41% with equalized content in the herd (SD 0.22%). Here also statistically insignificant differences depending on gender were observed. However, a statistically significant difference (p ≤ 0,05) was demonstrated which depended on animal age. Mature European bisons had more sulphur in hair as compared to calves.The concentration of vanadium (0.362 mg · kg ). Similar data were obtained while investigating hair of sea mammals.
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