Seasonal Variation in Zn Contamination in the Vegetable Spinacea oleracea Linn., during 2006–2008¹

Trend of Zn contamination, analyzed in the Spinacea oleracea from different field sites during 2006–2008 was in accordance of summer > winter > rain. Based on available analytical data, Zn was estimated high in vegetable of agricultural areas and low in the urban sites. Uncontrolled, unscientific applications of Zn in agricultural activity could be the reasons for increased Zn concentration in the undertaken vegetable. Soil threshold for Zn through excessive use of insecticide and fertilizers could be an important factor affecting Zn content in vegetable. Zn finally enters in vegetable by absorbing them from contaminated environment as well as from deposits on different parts exposed to air. Zn availability from above sources effect the edible parts of the vegetable and food hygiene.