Prof WONG Ming Hung
The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
Abstract: Food safety is one of the world's current major public health issues. There is a close relationship between environmental pollution, food safety, and environmental and human health. Among all contaminants, it is commonly recognized that heavy metals and persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are of particular concern. They impose health hazards, e.g., cancers with arsenic (As) and dioxins/furans (PCDD/Fs); neurological damage and lower IQ with lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), and more recently, some POPs; kidney diseases with Pb, Hg, and cadmium (Cd); skeletal and bone diseases with Pb, Cd, and fluoride (F). Unfortunately, the rapid socio-economic development of our region (i.e., the Pearl River Delta) has further accelerated the problem, threatening the ability of soils/sediments to meet safety standards and jeopardizing food production (such as rice and fish). There are data gaps concerning certain emerging chemicals, such as microplastics, bisphenol A, phthalates, etc. It is highly essential to understand (1) water/soil/sediment properties and functions related to different food production systems for better management of contaminants and to ensure food safety; (2) the contaminant pathways (from water/soil/sediment to the human body); and (3) various factors in determining how much of a contaminant is available to the human body, and for transport in the vicinity. Evidence shows the decreasing trends of some POPs, e.g. DDTs, PCBs, and PCDD/Fs are linked with effective control. This presentation will highlight major issues about PTS’s sources, fates, health implications, and sustainable management.
Host：Dr. Xiezhi Yu
Managing Editor
Nanjing University
Time：2:00pm Nov 7, 2022 (Beijing time)
Zoom ID: 816 9975 7155
Bilibili: 25002335
