Assessment of Elemental Transfer and Health Risks in a Viticulture System: A Case Study from South Africa's Western Cape.

Grapes are among the most widely consumed fruits, and their mineral composition requires careful analysis. Using instrumental neutron activation analysis coupled with inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry, the mass fractions of elements in soil, grapes, vine leaves, and grape juice from a wine farm in South Africa's Western Cape province were determined. This was done to assess the level of soil pollution, element accumulation in grapes and leaves, and the potential health risk associated with consuming grapes and juice. Except for Cu, the mass fractions of elements in the soil were below the maximum admissible levels set by the South African Department of Environmental Affairs. The soil showed moderate enrichment in Si, Sm, Yb, Ta, Th, Cd, and U, and significant enrichment in Se, Br, Zr, and Hf. In leaves, grapes, and juice, the major elements were Ca, K, and Mg, while among the minor elements, Fe and Cl were the most abundant. The mass fractions of Cd, As, and Pb did not exceed recommended limits. A transfer factor was used to evaluate metal translocation in the soil-plant/grapes system and from grapes to juice. Health risk assessment indicated no health risk for grape consumers.