Application of atomic absorption spectrometry with continuous light source to analyze selected metals important for human health in different parts of oranges

The publication describes the application of high-resolution continuum source atomic absorption spectrometry (H-R CS AAS) to determine some physiologically essential and toxic elements occurring in citrus fruits of different origins. Before analysis, the samples were mineralized using a mixture of deionized water and 69% nitric acid 3:1 (v/v) in high pressure microwave digestion at 188°C during one hour.

The obtained validation parameters for AAS such as high linearity (the correlation coefficient R > 0.997) and high precision expressed as relative standard deviation (%RSD) were satisfactory for quantification.

Cadmium at concentration range from 0.29 to 0.43 mg/kg was determined in all tested samples, however the obtained values did not exceed Polish standards. The higher concentration of potassium comparing to sodium and calcium was noted in each investigated samples. The highest variation was observed for calcium, its concentration strongly depended on the country of origin.