Trace elements determination in Algerian wheat by instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA)

In Algeria, bread is the staple food, produced in different kinds from local and imported wheat. Most of it is not subjected to micro-elemental analysis. The objective of this study is to determine quantitatively the traces elements in samples wheat grains produced locally from different cultivated provinces in Algeria. Trace elements (Co, Cr, Cs, Fe, Rb, Sc, Se and Zr) were determined using neutron activation analysis. The results show that the contents of the traces elements in the studied samples were within the safety baseline of all the assayed elements recommended by WHO/FAO except for cobalt in El Harrach province. The analytical results showed that chromium was undetectable in all samples except for Constantine, Ain Mlila and Setif provinces. However zirconium content in a few samples exceeded the permissible level.