Determination of heavy metals in raw milk produced in Tangshan City, China

Abstract

The objective of this study was to investigate the content of heavy metals (Arsenic, Lead, Chromium and Mercury) in raw milk of Tangshan. Samples were obtained directly from dairy farms in Tangshan City. A total of 55 raw milk samples were collected in 2012, a total of 150 raw milk samples and 150 in 2013 and 2014 respectively. All the samples were analyzed by ICP-MS (Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry) method-based on China National Standard. In general, heavy metals (Arsenic, Lead, Chromium and Mercury) of raw milk in Tangshan were relatively safe for people's health because none of those heavy metals (Arsenic, Lead, Chromium and Mercury) contents exceeded the Maximum Limit set by China.