Assessment of cadmium, lead and vanadium status of large animals as related to the human food chain.

Cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) are of established toxicological significance for humans, and it is important that intakes from foods not cause excessive exposure. Both elements concentrate to high levels in liver and kidneys of large, domestic food animals (cattle, sheep and swine), and Pb also concentrates in bone, which is sometimes used in the form of bone meal as a dietary supplement. Milk is a significant source of Cd and Pb for infants and toddlers. Levels of these elements in domestic food animal tissues and milk are presently within acceptable ranges for human consumption. Vanadium (V) sources to animals may increase and create potential human food problems; however, at the present time meats and milk are safe to consume with respect to this element.