POTENTIALLY TOXIC METALS PRESENT IN WATER, SOILS, VEGETABLES AND CROPS AND THEIR IMPACT ON HUMAN HEALTH : A STUDY

The environmental pollution by potentially toxic metals is increasing globally due to anthropogenic and geologic activities, these metals are considered as cytotoxic mutagenic and carcinogen. These metals are indestructible and indelible. These potentially toxic metals are present in all the organic material and living organisms. Technological advancements, changes in the farming system have enhanced the soil pollution by these metals. These metals not only pollute our agricultural soils but also retard the plant growth, crop yield, food safety and microbial population in the soil. These metals are accumulated in the groundwater, crops mainly green leafy vegetables and fishes causing harmful effects to consumers.