Risk Assessment Related to Metallic Trace Elements Present in Toothpaste Sold in Supermarkets in Abidjan (Côte D’Ivoire)

2026-02-24

Toothpaste, a widely used oral hygiene product, can constitute a pathway for exposure to metallic trace elements (ETM) due to their composition and manufacturing processes. Although these products are subject to regulations, the presence of toxic ETMs (Cd, Pb, Ni, Fe et Zn) remains a concern, particularly in developing countries where quality controls may be limited. This study aims to quantify the concentrations of Cd, Pb, Ni, Fe, and Zn in toothpastes sold in Abidjan, and assess the health risks associated with their use by ingestion and dermal route. Five brands of toothpastes were selected based on their popularity. Twenty-five samples were analyzed by X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (MESA-50). Non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks were calculated according to USEPA protocols. Results showed that average Zn concentrations (0.004–0.937 mg/kg) is higher in 60% of samples. Cd had high levels in P3 (0.055 mg/kg). Dermatological non-carcinogenic risk calculations QD values < 1 for all different toothpastes, thus would not constitute a potential hazard to the consumer. However, hazard quotients (HQs) by ingestion were >1 for Cd (38.99), Ni (1.16), and Pb (5.90), indicating a potential toxic risk. Carcinogenic risks (CR) were particularly high for Cd (253.4. 10^-6), exceeding the acceptable threshold (1 × 10^-6). This study reveals significant contamination by certain TMEs, particularly Zn and Cd, in toothpastes marketed in Abidjan. Although cutaneous risks are negligible, chronic ingestion could lead to cumulative toxic effects. Strengthened quality controls and awareness campaigns are recommended.

Impact of Microplastics on the Growth and Physiological Response in Zea mays and Sorghum bicolor

2026-03-15

The accumulation of microplastics (MPs) in agricultural soils poses a growing risk to terrestrial ecosystems, yet polymer-specific phytotoxic mechanisms remain only partially resolved. This study assessed the effects of 2% and 5% concentrations of low-density polyethylene (LDPE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polypropylene (PP) MPs on Zea mays and Sorghum bicolor. Microplastic exposure induced reductions in plant growth parameters and photosynthetic pigments, accompanied by enhanced oxidative stress, depending on the concentrations. Soil enzymatic activities including dehydrogenase, acid and alkaline phosphatase were also significantly modulated, indicating alterations in biochemical processes and nutrient cycling in soil. Among the three types of MPs studied, the marked phytotoxic responses were witnessed in PVC, followed by LDPE, whereas PP exhibited comparatively lower toxicity. Consistently the highest MP concentrations (5%) led to more pronounced detrimental effects on both the plants. These findings shed light on polymer-specific and concentration-dependent impacts of MP on plants and emphasize the critical need for deeper understanding and more comprehensive regulatory mechanisms that could be beneficial in improving plant tolerance and various remedial measures to reduce the effects of the MPs on the agroecosystems.

Journal of Environment Pollution and Human Health

Risk Assessment Related to Metallic Trace Elements Present in Toothpaste Sold in Supermarkets in Abidjan (Côte D’Ivoire)

Impact of Microplastics on the Growth and Physiological Response in Zea mays and Sorghum bicolor