Applying zeolites to natural environment is important from the point of view of monitoring the toxic metals’ mobilization (Al(III), Mn(II), Cd(II), and Pb(II)) as well as microelements (Fe, Mn, Zn, and Cu). These elements influenced food chain and their deficiency as well as excess and determined plant quality and health of humans and animals. Furthermore, zeolites, while having particular physical, physicochemical, and chemical properties, interact with physical, physicochemical, chemical, and biological features of the soil and may lead to alterations in their properties. This exchange is dependent on many factors, i.e. pH, concentration of metal ions in solution. When natural zeolites are applied, one should bear in mind that they are ecological material and do not show any harmful action neither to humans nor to animals. Studies in this chapter will show the influence of described and tested zeolites on the properties and quality indicators of the first food chain link: soil-plant as well as on the quality of food. It would allow to understand, predict, and control the behavior of these elements in natural environment as well as evaluate their potential toxicity and bioavailability.
Part of the book: Zeolites
Socioeconomic progress, diseases, and the constantly changing pace of life and lifestyles of consumers worldwide require food to be improved and tailored to meet the needs of purchasers. The produced food is functional, convenient, and enriched. This is achieved, i.e. with food additives. Nowadays, food additives are very widespread in the human diet, but not all of them are synthetic and invasive on human health. All food additives, and their application and dosage, are subject to strict regulations. The purpose of this work was to investigate which food additives are the most common in our everyday diet and how they affect our health.
Part of the book: Nutrition in Health and Disease