Current technologies for heavy metal removal from food and environmental resources

• Published in: Food science and biotechnology Vol. 33; no. 2; pp. 287 - 295
• Main Authors: Seo, Chan, Lee, Joo Won, Jeong, Jin-Woo, Kim, Tae-Su, Lee, Yoonmi, Gang, Gyoungok, Lee, Sang Gil
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Singapore Springer Nature Singapore 01-01-2024; Springer Nature B.V; 한국식품과학회
• Subjects: Bioaccumulation; Chemistry; Chemistry and Materials Science; Contaminants; Electrochemistry; Environmental engineering; Environmental health; Food chains; Food contamination; Food Science; Health risks; Heavy metals; Ion exchange; Nutrition; Pollutant removal; Pollution control; Review; Soil contamination; Soil water; Sustainable practices; Urban development; 식품과학; Water; Soil; Heavy metal removal; Agro-fishery products
• ISSN: 1226-7708; 2092-6456
• DOI: 10.1007/s10068-023-01431-w

Exposure to heavy metals in water and food poses a significant threat to human well-being, necessitating the efficient removal of these contaminants. The process of urban development exacerbates heavy metal pollution, thereby increasing risks to both human health and ecosystems. Heavy metals have the capacity to enter the food chain, undergo bioaccumulation and magnify, ultimately resulting in adverse effects on human health. Therefore, implementing effective pollution control measures and adopting sustainable practices are crucial for mitigating exposure and associated health risks. Various innovative approaches, including adsorption, ion exchange, and electrochemical technology, are currently being actively investigated to cope with the issue of heavy metal contamination. These innovative methods offer benefits such as efficient recycling, cost-effectiveness and environmental friendliness. In this review, we summarize recent advances for removing heavy metals from water, soil and food, providing valuable guidance for environmental engineers and researchers seeking to address contamination challenges.