Heavy Metals and Metalloids in Food, Water, and Soil: Propagation Pathways Diagnostic Analytical Technique Practices

Abstract

This review looks at how the chemical forms, movement, and availability of metal and metalloid contaminants affect food safety and public health. It brings together recent developments in detecting these contaminants in soil, water, and food, and points out the move from traditional lab methods to newer diagnostic tools. In the past five years, research has focused on creating electrochemical and spectroscopic sensors for real-time monitoring. The review also points out that more nanomaterials are being used to improve sensitivity. It compares contamination levels in farming systems to international standards and finds important gaps in regulations for new types of metalloids. The findings show that diagnostic techniques have improved a lot, but they are not widely used in the field yet. The review suggests new directions, like portable sensors and better models for identifying chemical forms. These tools are important for solving global farming challenges and keeping the food supply safe over time.