Food and Chemical Toxicology is a scientific journal committed to advancing knowledge in the areas of food safety, chemical analysis, toxicology, and public health. Published by Universitas Islam Sultan Agung (Unissula), Indonesia, the journal provides a scholarly platform for academics, researchers, health professionals, and industry practitioners to publish high-quality research articles, reviews, and case studies that address critical issues in food and chemical toxicology. The journal’s goal is to contribute to the development of safe food systems and the understanding of chemical risks that affect human health and the environment. Topics of interest include, but are not limited to, food toxicology, environmental contaminants, chemical safety assessment, risk evaluation, natural product toxicology, pharmacology, and regulatory science. Food and Chemical Toxicology employs a double-blind peer-review process to ensure rigorous evaluation of all submissions, publishing only original and impactful research that enhances the body of knowledge in food safety and toxicology. The journal is published biannually, in January–June and July–December, providing timely access to cutting-edge research and insights. It aims to serve as a valuable resource for researchers, academics, policymakers, and professionals engaged in food science, toxicology, and public health. We invite scholars and practitioners to submit their original manuscripts for publication. The journal is dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of academic excellence, with an emphasis on relevance, originality, and scientific contribution. All submitted manuscripts must follow the journal’s submission guidelines. Submissions that do not comply with formatting and style requirements will be returned without review. Only compliant manuscripts will proceed to peer review and editorial evaluation. Join us in contributing to this scholarly community as we work together to advance the field of food and chemical toxicology.
Integrated Risk Assessment of Food Contaminants and Implications for Human Health
Food safety in modern food systems is increasingly challenged by the simultaneous presence of multiple contaminants, including heavy metals, food additives, emerging contaminants, and natural bioactive compounds. This study develops an integrated perspective on food contaminant risk assessment by synthesizing evidence on contamination sources, exposure pathways, toxicological mechanisms, and regulatory frameworks. A qualitative Systematic Literature Review (SLR) approach was applied to analyze peer-reviewed studies published between 2020 and 2025. The findings indicate that human exposure is cumulative and influenced by dietary patterns, environmental conditions, and food production systems. Shared toxicological mechanisms, such as oxidative stress and metabolic disruption, suggest that combined exposure may amplify health risks. The study highlights limitations of traditional single-substance risk assessment models and emphasizes the need for integrative frameworks that account for mixture effects and exposure variability. These insights support the development of more adaptive and comprehensive food safety strategies
Safety and Toxicological Implications of Natural Bioactive Compounds in Food Systems
Natural bioactive compounds are widely used in food systems due to their functional and health-promoting properties; however, their safety remains a critical concern. This study evaluates the toxicological implications of these compounds by synthesizing recent evidence on their biological effects, contamination risks, and regulatory challenges. A qualitative Systematic Literature Review (SLR) approach was applied to analyze peer-reviewed studies published between 2017 and 2025. The findings indicate that natural compounds exhibit dual effects, where beneficial outcomes may shift to toxicity depending on dosage, exposure conditions, and individual variability. In addition, contamination from heavy metals, microbial agents, and environmental factors significantly influences their safety profiles. Toxicological mechanisms are associated with oxidative stress, inflammation, and molecular interactions. The study highlights limitations in current regulatory frameworks and emphasizes the need for standardized evaluation methods to ensure safe use of natural bioactive compounds in food systems
Emerging Contaminants in Food Systems and Their Impact on Human Health
Emerging contaminants in food systems, including microplastics and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), have become a growing concern due to their persistence, widespread distribution, and potential health impacts. This study evaluates their presence and implications for human health by synthesizing recent evidence on contamination sources, food chain transfer, toxicological mechanisms, and combined exposure risks. A qualitative Systematic Literature Review (SLR) approach was applied to analyze peer-reviewed studies published between 2020 and 2025. The findings indicate that these contaminants enter food systems through environmental pathways and accumulate through bioaccumulation and trophic transfer, leading to continuous dietary exposure. Toxicological effects are associated with oxidative stress, inflammation, and metabolic disruption, with potential additive or synergistic interactions. The study highlights limitations in traditional risk assessment approaches and emphasizes the need for integrative frameworks that account for mixture effects and exposure variability to improve food safety evaluation
Health Risks of Food Additives in Modern Diets and Implications for Food Safety
Food additives are widely used in modern food systems to enhance quality, stability, and sensory characteristics, but their increasing presence in processed foods raises concerns regarding potential health risks. This study evaluates the health implications of food additives by synthesizing recent evidence on additive types, dietary exposure patterns, toxicological mechanisms, and regulatory frameworks. A qualitative Systematic Literature Review (SLR) approach was applied to analyze peer-reviewed studies published between 2017 and 2025. The findings indicate that additives are commonly consumed in combination through processed foods, leading to cumulative exposure. Toxicological effects are associated with mechanisms such as oxidative stress, inflammation, and metabolic disruption, which may contribute to long-term health outcomes. The study also highlights limitations in current risk assessment approaches, particularly in addressing combined and long-term exposure. These findings emphasize the need for more integrative frameworks to improve food safety evaluation and regulatory strategies.
Pathways and Mechanisms of Heavy Metal Toxicity in Food Chains: A Systematic Literature Review
Heavy metal contamination in food systems represents a significant public health concern due to its persistence, bioaccumulation, and potential toxic effects on humans. This study aims to evaluate heavy metal exposure from a contemporary risk perspective by synthesizing recent evidence on contamination sources, food chain transfer, toxicological mechanisms, and health implications. A qualitative Systematic Literature Review (SLR) approach was applied to analyze peer-reviewed studies published between 2020 and 2025. The findings indicate that heavy metals enter food systems through environmental pollution and agricultural practices, followed by accumulation through food chains and continuous dietary exposure. Toxic effects are primarily associated with oxidative stress, enzymatic disruption, and metabolic interference, contributing to chronic health outcomes. The study highlights limitations in conventional risk assessment approaches and emphasizes the need for more integrative frameworks that consider cumulative exposure and environmental variability. These insights support the development of improved food safety strategies and risk evaluation models
Heavy Metal Contamination in Food and Its Health Implications: A Food Toxicology Perspective
Heavy metal contamination in food is a major global food safety issue that poses potential health risks to humans. Heavy metals such as lead, mercury, cadmium, and chromium can enter the food system through various environmental pathways, including soil and water that have been contaminated by anthropogenic activities. This study aims to comprehensively examine aspects of food toxicology related to heavy metal contamination, including sources of contamination, mechanisms of bioaccumulation, and their impact on human health. The method used was a literature review analyzing various relevant scientific publications from the past five years. The results of the study indicate that heavy metals can accumulate in the food chain through the processes of bioaccumulation and biomagnification, thereby increasing the risk of exposure to humans as end consumers. Long-term exposure can cause various health disorders, such as organ damage, nervous system disorders, and chronic diseases. Therefore, comprehensive control efforts are needed through environmental management, improved food safety, and public education to minimize the risk of heavy metal exposure in a sustainable and effective manner
Food Safety and Toxicological Risks in Modern Food Systems
Food safety is a crucial aspect of the modern food system, which focuses not only on food availability but also on the safety of consumption. This study aims to analyze the relationship between food safety and toxicological risks within the context of the ever-evolving global food system. The method employed is a qualitative approach through the analysis of scientific literature from various reliable sources published over the past five years. The findings indicate that food contamination, whether chemical in nature, such as heavy metals and pesticide residues, or biological, such as mycotoxins, has significant potential to cause long-term health impacts, including organ damage, nervous system disorders, and the risk of chronic diseases. Additionally, global factors such as changes in food distribution systems, urbanization, and shifts in consumer patterns further increase the complexity of these risks. A risk-based approach is a critical strategy for identifying, evaluating, and controlling hazards in food. This research underscores that the integration of food safety and food toxicology is essential to support a sustainable food system and comprehensively protect public health.
Environmental Health Risk Analysis of Water and Air Pollution
Environmental pollution is a global issue that has a significant impact on human health, particularly through water and air. This study aims to analyze health risks resulting from exposure to chemical and biological contaminants using an environmental health risk analysis approach. A qualitative method was employed, utilizing secondary scientific data from various publications over the past five years obtained through an online literature search. The results indicate that water pollution caused by heavy metals and pathogenic microorganisms contributes to an increased risk of infectious diseases and vital organ disorders. Meanwhile, air pollution resulting from particulate matter and hazardous gases is associated with an increase in respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. The environmental health risk analysis approach provides a systematic overview of the risk levels faced by the public. Furthermore, the integration of various environmental media demonstrates that the impacts of pollution are complex and mutually interactive. Therefore, comprehensive and sustainable control efforts are required to minimize health risks and improve environmental quality and community well-being.
Impacts of Microplastics on Food Safety and Human Health
Microplastics are environmental pollutants that are receiving increasing global attention due to their widespread distribution and potential impact on human health. This study aims to comprehensively examine the presence of microplastics, exposure pathways, and their implications for food safety and human health through a literature review. Data were collected from various scientific literature sources published over the past five years. The results of the study indicate that microplastics have been found in various environmental compartments, including water, soil, and air, and can enter the food chain through the consumption of food products, particularly fishery products. Human exposure to microplastics has the potential to cause health effects such as oxidative stress, inflammation, and immune system disorders. Additionally, microplastics act as vectors for hazardous chemicals that can increase the risk of toxicity. In the context of food safety, the presence of microplastics poses a new challenge that requires serious attention. Therefore, integrated efforts are needed to reduce microplastic pollution through increased public awareness, improved waste management, and the development of environmentally friendly alternatives
Microplastic Pollution and Its Implications for Food Safety and Human Health: A Systematic Review
Microplastic pollution has become a rapidly growing global environmental issue, raising serious concerns about food safety and human health. This study aims to analyze the presence of microplastics in aquatic environments, their entry into the food chain, and their implications for human health through a systematic literature review (SLR) approach. Data were obtained from scientific articles published in the last five years and systematically analyzed to identify patterns and key findings. The results of the review indicate that microplastics are widespread in aquatic environments and can accumulate in various aquatic organisms, including seafood consumed by humans. Microplastics not only act as physical particles but also as vectors carrying hazardous substances such as heavy metals and persistent organic compounds. Exposure to microplastics has the potential to cause health issues, such as inflammation, oxidative stress, and gut microbiota disruption, although their long-term effects still require further research. Additionally, public awareness of the risks associated with microplastics remains relatively low. Therefore, integrated efforts through research, education, and policy are needed to mitigate the impact of microplastics on food safety and human health
Cumulative Chemical Exposure in Food Systems and Implications for Human Health
This study evaluates cumulative chemical exposure in food systems and its implications for human health, focusing on combined exposure from environmental contaminants, food additives, and natural compounds. Using a qualitative Systematic Literature Review (SLR) approach, this study synthesizes recent evidence to examine how multiple chemical sources contribute to complex exposure patterns in modern diets. The findings indicate that human exposure occurs through mixtures of chemicals rather than isolated substances, leading to cumulative effects shaped by repeated intake and biological accumulation. Key processes such as bioaccumulation, oxidative stress, inflammation, and endocrine disruption are identified as central mechanisms influencing health outcomes. The results highlight that current risk assessment approaches may not fully capture the complexity of real-world exposure scenarios. This study emphasizes the need for integrative frameworks that consider mixture effects, cumulative exposure, and system-level interactions in evaluating food safety and protecting human health
Natural Bioactive Compounds in Food: Between Therapeutic Effects and Toxicity
This study evaluates the dual role of natural bioactive compounds in food consumption, focusing on their therapeutic benefits, dose-dependent effects, and potential toxicity. Using a qualitative Systematic Literature Review (SLR) approach, this study synthesizes recent evidence to examine how natural compounds influence human health through complex biological mechanisms. The findings indicate that bioactive compounds contribute to health promotion through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, but their impact is strongly dependent on dosage and exposure conditions. The concept of hormesis highlights that low doses may produce beneficial effects, whereas higher doses can lead to toxicity. In addition, natural compounds may induce adverse outcomes such as hepatotoxicity and oxidative imbalance when consumed in excessive amounts or under improper conditions. This study emphasizes that natural origin does not guarantee safety and highlights the need for integrative risk assessment approaches that consider dose-response relationships and long-term exposure
Emerging Environmental Contaminants in Food Systems and Human Health Risks
This study evaluates the presence and health risks of emerging environmental contaminants in food systems, with a focus on microplastics, PFAS, and their transfer through the food chain. Using a qualitative Systematic Literature Review (SLR) approach, this study synthesizes recent research to examine how these contaminants enter environmental media and are subsequently incorporated into food systems. The findings indicate that microplastics and PFAS are widely distributed and persist in soil, water, and biological organisms, enabling their transfer across trophic levels and leading to human exposure through dietary intake. Key processes such as bioaccumulation and biomagnification contribute to increased contaminant concentrations within food chains. At the biological level, these substances are associated with mechanisms including oxidative stress, inflammation, and endocrine disruption, which may result in long-term health risks. This study highlights the need for integrated risk assessment approaches that consider environmental pathways and cumulative exposure
Ultra-Processed Foods and the Gut Microbiome: A Systematic Review of Cumulative Additive Exposure and Health Risk
This study evaluates the health risks associated with food additive exposure in ultra-processed food consumption, with a focus on dietary patterns, cumulative intake, microbiome interactions, and toxicological mechanisms. Using a qualitative Systematic Literature Review (SLR) approach, this study synthesizes recent evidence to examine how widespread consumption of ultra-processed foods contributes to continuous exposure to multiple additives. The findings indicate that additive exposure occurs as mixtures rather than isolated compounds, leading to cumulative effects that may influence long-term health outcomes. Emerging evidence highlights the role of the gut microbiome as a key mediator, where additives may alter microbial composition, intestinal permeability, and metabolic function. In addition, mechanisms such as oxidative stress and inflammation are identified as critical pathways linking exposure to disease risk. This study underscores the need for integrated risk assessment approaches that consider cumulative exposure, biological interactions, and real-world dietary conditions
Integrated Risk Assessment of Chemical Exposure in Food Systems and Human Health
This study evaluates the health risks associated with heavy metal contamination in seafood consumption within modern food systems, focusing on contamination sources, environmental drivers, exposure pathways, and toxicological effects. Using a qualitative Systematic Literature Review (SLR) approach, this study synthesizes recent research to examine how heavy metals enter aquatic environments and accumulate in marine organisms. The findings indicate that contamination is influenced by multiple factors, including industrial pollution, aquaculture practices, and climate-related changes that affect metal mobility and bioavailability. Bioaccumulation and biomagnification are identified as key processes contributing to human exposure through seafood consumption. At the biological level, heavy metals exert toxic effects through mechanisms such as oxidative stress and cellular damage, leading to potential long-term health risks. This study highlights the need for integrated risk assessment approaches that consider environmental dynamics and cumulative exposure in evaluating seafood safety
Advances in Nanotechnology-Based Biosensors for Aflatoxin Detection in Food Safety
Food safety is a critical global issue, particularly regarding mycotoxin contamination such as aflatoxins, which are harmful to human health. This study aims to examine the development of biosensor technology for aflatoxin detection and to evaluate its potential application in food safety systems. The method used was a literature review of relevant scientific publications from the past five years. The results of the study indicate that biosensors, particularly those based on electrochemistry and aptamers, offer advantages in sensitivity, selectivity, and detection speed compared with conventional methods. The integration of nanotechnology, such as the use of nanoparticles and carbon-based materials, has proven capable of significantly enhancing biosensor performance. Furthermore, the development of multi-mode biosensors and their integration with digital systems offers opportunities for the development of more efficient and real-time detection systems. However, several challenges remain, such as sensor stability and application to complex samples. Therefore, further research is needed to optimize biosensor performance so that they can be widely applied to support food safety
The Role of Nanotechnology in Enhancing Food Industry Quality and Safety
The food industry faces various global challenges, such as population growth, resource constraints, and demands for food quality and safety. This study aims to analyze the role of nanotechnology in improving efficiency, quality, and safety in the food industry. The method used is a qualitative approach through a literature review of various relevant scientific sources from the past five years. The results of the study indicate that nanotechnology makes a significant contribution in various aspects, including processing, packaging, preservation, and food safety. Technologies such as nanoencapsulation and nanoemulsions can enhance the bioavailability of nutrients, while nanotechnology-based packaging can extend shelf life and improve protection against contamination. Additionally, the use of nanosensors enables rapid detection of pathogens and hazardous substances. However, the application of nanotechnology still faces challenges related to safety, regulation, and public acceptance. Therefore, policy development and further research are needed to ensure the safe and sustainable implementation of this technology. Nanotechnology holds great potential in supporting a more efficient and sustainable food system
Impact of Toxic Compounds on Cellular Metabolism and Human Health
Exposure to toxic compounds is a growing global issue due to industrial development and human activities. This study aims to analyze the impact of toxic compounds on cellular metabolism and its implications for human health. The method used is a descriptive qualitative approach through a literature review of various scientific sources over the past five years. The results of the study indicate that toxic compounds can disrupt cellular metabolism through several primary mechanisms, such as the induction of oxidative stress, disruption of enzyme activity, and damage to cellular structures. Increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) causes damage to important biomolecules such as proteins, lipids, and DNA, which has the potential to trigger various chronic diseases. Additionally, the body’s detoxification system has limitations in coping with excessive exposure, leading to the accumulation of toxins in body tissues. These effects not only affect cellular function but also contribute to disorders of organ systems such as the nervous, cardiovascular, and metabolic systems. Therefore, a deep understanding of the mechanisms of biochemical toxicology is crucial in supporting efforts to prevent and manage health risks resulting from exposure to toxic compounds
Utilization of Essential Oils as Antimicrobial Agents in Active Packaging for Food Preservation
Food safety is a critical issue related to the growth of microorganisms that cause food spoilage and quality degradation. This study aims to examine the potential of essential oils as natural antimicrobial agents in active packaging systems for food preservation. The method used was a literature review, analyzing various relevant scientific publications from the past five years. The results of the study indicate that essential oils contain bioactive compounds such as phenols, aldehydes, and terpenoids capable of inhibiting microbial growth through mechanisms involving cell membrane damage and metabolic disruption. However, the direct use of essential oils remains limited due to their high volatility and impact on the sensory properties of the product. Therefore, the integration of essential oils into active packaging offers an effective solution as it enables the controlled release of active compounds. This technology not only enhances stability and antimicrobial efficacy but also supports the development of safer and more environmentally friendly food preservation methods
Heavy Metal Accumulation in Aquatic Environments and Its Implications for Fishery Products and Human Health
Heavy metal pollution in aquatic environments is a global issue with significant impacts on ecosystems and human health. Heavy metals such as lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), and zinc (Zn) are toxic, persistent, and capable of accumulating in aquatic organisms through the processes of bioaccumulation and biomagnification. This study aims to analyze heavy metal accumulation in aquatic environments and its impact on fishery products and human health using a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) approach. Data were collected from scientific articles published over the past five years relevant to the research topic. The review results indicate that heavy metals are distributed in water, sediments, and aquatic biota, with sediments serving as the primary accumulation medium. Aquatic organisms, particularly fish, have the potential to accumulate heavy metals in their body tissues, which can then be transferred to humans through consumption. Long-term exposure to heavy metals can cause serious health problems, including damage to organs and the nervous system. Therefore, sustainable environmental management and water quality monitoring are necessary to minimize the associated risks
Tracing Toxic Chemical Routes and Their Impact on Food Safety Across Production Stages
Chemical substances exceeding established safety limits have long posed serious threats to human health and the environment, particularly in developing countries. The global food sector is increasingly challenged by toxic chemical contaminants originating from both natural processes and anthropogenic activities. These pollutants can infiltrate all stages of the food production chain, thereby compromising food safety. Among the most concerning are Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs), such as pesticides and Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs), which are known for their resistance to degradation and long-term ecological impacts. Chemical contamination occurs through multiple pathways, including agricultural practices, industrial emissions, and environmental media such as air, water, and soil. These pathways facilitate the transfer and accumulation of harmful substances in food products. Therefore, strict control measures are essential, particularly in regulating pesticide use, antibiotic application, and food packaging processes to prevent residue accumulation. Ensuring food safety requires coordinated regulatory oversight at both national and international levels. Strengthening monitoring systems and enforcing global standards are crucial steps to reduce exposure risks and maintain the safety and sustainability of the global food supply chain
A Comprehensive Review of Environmental Microplastics: Food Web Transfer, Human Exposure, and Toxicological Implications
Recent years have witnessed a rapid expansion of research on microplastics (MPs), driven by increasing recognition of their potential health implications. The opening section of this review addresses the environmental occurrence, distribution patterns, and quantification methodologies for MPs. These particles are transferred from environmental compartments to humans predominantly via inhalation, followed by ingestion, and to a lesser degree through dermal absorption. Regarding food web contamination, this review examines MP presence not only in extensively studied matrices such as seafood, potable water, and table salt, but also in other dietary sources including honey, sugar, milk, fruits, and various meats (chicken, beef, and pork). Collectively, the available literature indicates that human exposure to MPs through these pathways is substantial and warrants attention. Consequently, considerable scientific effort has focused on evaluating potential human health hazards. Toxicological investigations have progressed from aquatic organism models to experimental mammalian systems and human cell cultures
Burden of Disease Attributable to Chemical Contaminants in Food: A Literature Review
Chemical contaminants in food are a critical issue in food safety and public health because they have the potential to increase the burden of disease. This study aims to analyze the contribution of chemical contaminants to the burden of disease through a literature review approach. Data were obtained from Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and PubMed, with articles from 2018 to 2022 as criteria. The study results indicate that various contaminants, such as pesticide residues, heavy metals, and mycotoxins, are still found in food and have the potential to cause health impacts, especially due to chronic and cumulative exposure. The burden of disease approach provides a more comprehensive picture of these impacts
Food Safety and Chemical Toxicology: Evaluating Exposure Risks and Health Outcomes
Food safety has become a critical global issue due to increasing chemical contamination across modern food systems, posing significant risks to human health. Continuous exposure to chemical substances such as pesticide residues, food additives, and emerging contaminants raises concerns regarding long-term toxicological effects. This study aims to evaluate patterns of chemical exposure in food, analyze associated toxicological risks, and examine their implications for public health. The research employs a qualitative design using an integrative literature review approach, drawing on secondary data from peer-reviewed journals, scientific reports, and policy documents. The findings reveal that chemical exposure occurs through multiple pathways along the food supply chain, including production, processing, and consumption stages. Risk assessment frameworks provide essential tools for evaluating these exposures; however, limitations remain in addressing mixed exposures and emerging contaminants. The study also finds that prolonged exposure to chemical substances may lead to various adverse health outcomes, including metabolic disorders and chronic diseases. In conclusion, strengthening integrated risk assessment, regulatory enforcement, and public awareness is crucial for improving food safety and minimizing toxicological risks in increasingly complex food systems
Health Risk Assessment of Pesticide Residues in Food: A Literature Review
This study aims to analyze the health risks of exposure to pesticide residues in food through a literature review approach. Data were obtained from Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and PubMed with the inclusion criteria of articles published between 2018 and 2022, focusing on pesticides and health, and originating from reputable international journals. The analysis was conducted using content analysis and synthesis of research findings. The results of the study indicate that pesticide residues are still widely found in food, often in the form of a combination of several compounds (multiple residues). Although most residue levels are below the established maximum limit, chronic exposure and cumulative effects still have the potential to pose health risks. Risk assessment using Estimated Daily Intake (EDI), Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI), and Hazard Quotient (HQ) indicators shows that the risk is generally still within the safe category, but vulnerable groups such as children have a higher potential for exposure. Furthermore, existing risk assessment approaches still have limitations in accommodating long-term effects and interactions between pesticides
Emerging Chemical Risks in Food Systems: Insights from Scientific Evidence and Safety Evaluations
Chemical contamination in the food system is a growing global issue that poses serious risks to human health. Various types of chemicals, such as heavy metals, pesticide residues, food additives, and new contaminants, can enter the food chain through the environment, production, distribution, and storage processes. This study aims to systematically examine the types of chemical contaminants in food, their toxicity mechanisms, and their implications for food safety and public health. The method used was a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) of relevant, academically indexed scientific publications from 2017–2022. The results show that chemical contaminants are increasingly diverse and complex, with the main toxicity mechanisms including oxidative stress, DNA damage, enzyme system disruption, and vital organ dysfunction. Long-term exposure, even at low doses, has the potential to cause chronic effects such as cancer, neurological disorders, metabolic diseases, and reproductive disorders. Therefore, strengthening regulations, improving risk-based monitoring systems, and innovating food processing technologies are needed to sustainably minimize the risks of chemicals in food
Effects of Food Coloring Exposure on Oxidative Stress in Cells
Food coloring additives are widely used in the food industry to enhance the appearance and acceptability of products; however, their potential health effects remain a growing concern. This study aims to analyze the effects of food coloring exposure on oxidative stress in cells, focusing on its role as a key mechanism of toxicity. A qualitative research method was employed using a descriptive-analytical approach based on a review of relevant scientific literature from peer-reviewed sources. The findings indicate that exposure to food color additives, particularly synthetic dyes, is strongly associated with increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to oxidative stress and subsequent cellular damage, including lipid peroxidation, protein modification, and DNA impairment. Furthermore, oxidative stress is identified as a central pathway linking food coloring exposure to broader biological effects such as inflammation, organ dysfunction, and potential neurological disturbances. In conclusion, food coloring additives are not entirely biologically safe, and their long-term consumption may pose health risks through oxidative mechanisms. Therefore, further research and stricter evaluation of food additive safety are necessary to ensure consumer protection
Risk Analysis of Heavy Metals in Fish Consumption and Its Implications for Human Health
Fish is a nutrient-rich source of animal protein and plays a vital role in meeting human nutritional needs. However, the presence of heavy metals such as mercury (Hg), lead (Pb), and cadmium (Cd) in fish poses potential health risks. This study aims to analyze heavy metal contamination in fish and evaluate the risks of consumption to human health through a literature review. Data were collected from various online scientific sources published over the past five years and analyzed using a descriptive-comparative method. The results indicate that heavy metal contamination in fish is influenced by environmental and biological factors and tends to accumulate through the food chain. Although most heavy metal levels remain within safe limits, long-term exposure still has the potential to pose health risks. Risk assessment approaches such as Estimated Daily Intake and Target Hazard Quotient provide a more comprehensive picture regarding the safety of consumption. Therefore, continuous monitoring of aquatic environmental quality and increased public awareness regarding safe and balanced fish consumption are necessary
Inflammation, Oxidative Stress, and Medicinal Plants in Health Therapy
Inflammation and oxidative stress are key biological mechanisms involved in the development of various diseases. An imbalance between the inflammatory response and the antioxidant system can lead to cellular damage and worsen health conditions. As the side effects of synthetic drugs become increasingly recognized, interest in the use of natural substances, particularly medicinal plants, is growing as an alternative therapy. This study aims to examine the role of inflammation and oxidative stress, as well as the potential and safety of using natural substances in the context of health. The method employed is a qualitative approach through a literature review of various scientific sources published over the past five years. The results of the review indicate that medicinal plants contain bioactive compounds such as flavonoids and polyphenols that possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Additionally, most plant extracts demonstrate good safety profiles at specific doses based on toxicity tests. However, the use of non-standardized extracts still carries the potential for side effects. Therefore, further research and standardization are necessary to ensure the efficacy and safety of using natural substances as health therapies
Heavy Metal Exposure through Seafood Consumption and Its Impact on Human Health
Heavy metal pollution in aquatic environments is a growing public health issue resulting from anthropogenic activities. Heavy metals such as lead (Pb) are toxic and persistent, and they can accumulate in the food chain through bioaccumulation and biomagnification. This study aims to analyze the relationship between seafood consumption and heavy metal exposure, and to assess their impact on human health. The method used was a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) by examining scientific articles published in the last five years and obtained from the Google Scholar database. The results of the review indicate that consumption of contaminated seafood is one of the primary routes of heavy metal exposure in humans. Chronic exposure to heavy metals can cause disorders in the nervous, hematological, and reproductive systems. The level of exposure risk is influenced by consumption frequency, the type of seafood, and the environmental conditions of the water. Additionally, individual factors such as nutritional status also play a role in determining the level of vulnerability to exposure. Therefore, efforts to control environmental pollution and public education are needed to reduce the risk of heavy metal exposure and protect human health sustainably.