Accumulation of heavy metals in winegrowing areas of the Arequipa region: analysis of ecological and health risks

Heavy metals are persistent pollutants that represent a threat to ecosystems and human health due to their capacity for bioaccumulation. The aim of this study was to determine the potential ecological risk associated with heavy metals in soils of four winegrowing areas in the Arequipa region of Peru (La Joya, Majes Tradición, CIEPA-Majes and San Isidro), as well as the health risks related to the level of contamination of Moscatel grape must. The presence of arsenic (As), boron (B), cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), mercury (Hg), lead (Pb), and zinc (Zn) in soils and musts was assessed using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The results revealed that Cd concentrations in the La Joya must exceeded permissible limits. Ecological risk indices indicated moderate to considerable contamination levels, particularly for Cd, As, and B, suggesting a worrying environmental impact. Regarding human health, non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks were identified, mainly due to the presence of As and Hg in the musts from La Joya, Majes Tradición and CIEPA-Majes, and Cd and Pb in the samples from La Joya and Majes Tradición, which could have adverse effects on consumers of grape derived products. These findings underscore the need to implement control and monitoring measures in the region to mitigate the impact of heavy metal contamination on soils, plants, and agricultural products.