Comparative Analysis of Heavy Metal Accumulation in Soils near Industrial Complexes and their uptake in Edible Plants

Heavy metal contamination of agricultural soils near industrial complexes is a growing environmental and public health concern. Metals such as cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), arsenic (As), mercury (Hg), chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), and zinc (Zn) can persist in soils, accumulate through industrial emissions, wastewater irrigation, or deposition, and ultimately enter the food chain via edible plants. This review synthesizes existing knowledge on the comparative accumulation of heavy metals in soils adjacent to industrial areas and their uptake in various food crops. Factors influencing metal mobility and bioavailability, including soil pH, organic matter, cation exchange capacity, and redox conditions, are highlighted. Mechanisms of plant uptake, including root absorption, translocation, and compartmentalization, are examined across leafy vegetables, cereals, and root crops. Evidence consistently indicates higher accumulation of Cd, Pb, and As in leafy and root vegetables compared to cereals, posing significant dietary exposure risks. Health implications of chronic metal ingestion, including neurotoxicity, carcinogenicity, and organ dysfunction, underscore the urgency of mitigation strategies. Emerging remediation approaches, such as phytoremediation, soil amendments, and biochar application, are discussed as potential solutions. The review emphasizes the need for standardized risk assessment frameworks, long-term monitoring, and sustainable industrial practices to minimize food chain contamination.