In this study the transfer factors values clearly indicate that by selecting particular vegetables, it is possible toreduce the risk of human exposure to soil metal contaminations.
Based on the results, lettuce and Swiss chard are high Fe, Mn and Cu accumulators; lettuce, Swiss chard and tomato are high Zn accumulators; tomato and lettuce are high Cd accumulators; green pepper, cabbage, tomato and onion are high Pb accumulators.
Based on the toxicity of heavy metals more attention for Pb and Cd is needed.
Therefore, we strongly suggest that in Pb/Cd contaminated areas one should avoid eating the vegetables listed above in
order to reduce health risks.
On the other hand, lower Pb and Cd accumulator vegetables are relatively safer to consume.