Distribution and health risk of chromium in wheat grains at the national scale in China.

Chromium (Cr) pollution may threaten food safety in China. In this study, the concentration, pollution level, distribution, and non-cancer risk of Cr in wheat grains grown in 186 areas across 28 provinces in China were investigated. Results indicated that mean concentration of Cr was 0.28 ± 2.5 mg/kg, dry mass (dm). Of the samples, 7.5 % were found to be polluted with Cr. The mean concentrations were in the following order: Northwest > Northeast > South > East > North > Southwest > Central China. Based on deterministic models, mean hazard quotient (HQ) values for adult males, adult females, and children were 0.11 ± 3.4, 0.11 ± 3.4, and 0.13 ± 3.5, respectively with < 6 % of HQ values ≥ 1. Eleven sites in northern China were identified as hotspots, whereas Gansu Province and Northwestern China were labeled as priority provinces and regions for risk control. The mean HQ values estimated by probabilistic risk assessment were two times greater than those estimated using deterministic models. The risk probabilities for adult males, adult females, and children were 4.81 %, 3.78 %, and 6.55 %, respectively. This study provides valuable information on Cr pollution in wheat grains and its risks at a national scale in China. [Display omitted] • First national-scale investigation of Cr in wheat grains and health risks. • Cr pollution and deterministic and probabilistic health risks were assessed. • Hotspots, priority provinces and regions for risk control were identified. • 7.5 % of wheat grains polluted; 3.78–6.55 % of inhabitants at non-cancer risks. • Children were not undergoing larger risk than adult males/females. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]