ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINANTS IN WILD BOARS FROM CALABRIA

The aim of this study was to determine heavy metals (Cd, Cu, Pb and Zn) organochlorine pesticides (POCs) and polychlorinated biphenyl (PCBs) in some samples (heart, kidney, liver, lung, muscle tissue and spleen) of wild boars (utilized as “bioindicator”) from various areas from Calabria. Quantitative determination of POCs and PCBs were carried out using GC-ECD and confirmed with GC-MS. The concentrations of heavy metals were determined by a Varian Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy instrument. Our data have shown low residual levels of OCs, heavy metals and the absence of PCBs in all samples analyzed and therefore the boar meat products are not dangerous for the consumer. Moreover, results obtained deserve particular attention not only for their significance but especially because they were recorded in Calabria, a region a low risk of environmental pollution due to the shortage of industries and the traditional agricultural activity.