Survey of Pb, Cd, and Cr concentrations in imported Indian and Pakistan rice distributed in Sanandaj city

Background and purpose: Food contamination by heavy metals has been of great concern to human. The aim of this study was to evaluate the levels of Cd, Pb, and Cr in rice imported from India and Pakistan in Sanandaj city in 2014. Methods: From the rice brands frequently used by Sanandaj’s inhabitants during 2014, the top twenty were selected. Heavy metals of each brand were assayed using an atomic absorption. Results: The results showed no significant difference in heavy metal concentrations between Indian and Pakistani origins (p < 0.05). Furthermore, Cd, Pb, and Cr concentration levels were in line with national and international standards. Conclusion: Due to high levels of cadmium and chromium absorption weekly and bioaccumulation of metals in food chain, periodic studies are suggested.