To monitor inorganic arsenic in apple juice, FDA scientists use two methods. The FDA scientists use two methods to measure total arsenic. First, they use inductively coupled mass-spectrometry (ICPMS). The second method, speciation analysis determines the amount of organic and inorganic arsenic in the sample. The former method is more sensitive in low concentrations of arsenic; the latter is more sensitive in higher concentrations.
Sources of inorganic arsenic in apple juice
Inorganic arsenic is a contaminant that can cause toxic effects. Apple juice has low levels. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), however, has asked consumers to be aware about the dangers of arsenic and take steps to protect their health. The agency is currently monitoring imported juices and has ordered 90 samples be tested by year's close. It has also responded positively to consumer groups' demands for stricter limits of heavy metals in apples.
The FDA's surveillance of arsenic-containing foods found that apples had very low levels of arsenic as compared with other fruits, vegetables, and vegetables. Some organic arsenics, such as dimethylarsinic acids (DMAV), have been toxic to animals in animal studies. Even though DMAV is a carcinogen for rats, these studies are still based in animal studies. Metabolic differences in humans may also make it a concern.
Carcinogenicity of inorganic arsenic
Although it isn't clear how much inorganic Arsenic apple juice contains, some studies suggest that it is not carcinogenic. A study of 168 preschoolers showed that 11% consumed 12 ounces per day. This amounts to 3.5 mg of iAs each day. This high end rate, according to the study would lead to an increase in arsenic intake by between 39 and 78 percent. FDA sets a limit for juice at 10 ppb. This allows background exposure to arsenic during vulnerable times in life.
The FDA currently monitors the levels of inorganic Arsenic in different food products. Although the FDA has set forth action levels to address arsenic contamination in rice and juices, they have not been implemented. The FDA sent an advisory letter to the apple juice producer in 2012 but has not yet created enforceable standards for levels of arsenic.
EPA limit for inorganic arousic in drinking waters
The EPA has established a limit on inorganic arsenic in apple juice and drinking water. This limit is based upon a study of 94 samples. The EPA estimates that arsenic content in a person's water is less then 10 parts per million. However, some consumer groups believe that this limit should be increased.
The FDA has previously tested the levels for inorganic arsenic within apple products. The majority of these samples fell below the EPA level for inorganic arcsenic. There were four cases where total arsenic was higher than the limit.
Arsenic has been used for poisoning thousands of people over thousands of years. Even tiny amounts can be deadly. It has been linked directly to bladder, lung, or skin cancer. It can increase your chances of developing heart disease, and even immune deficiency.