Evaluation of dietary status with respect to trace element intake from dry fruits consumed in Pakistan: a study using instrumental neutron activation analysis.

Instrumental neutron activation analysis has been utilized for the quantification of 24 major, minor and trace elements in dried apricots (Prunus armeniaca), dates (Phoenix dectylifera), figs (Ficus carica) and raisins (Vitis vinifera) using a low-power reactor as the neutron source. The weekly intakes of aluminium, arsenic, boron, calcium, chlorine, cobalt, chromium, iron, mercury, potassium, sodium, magnesium, manganese, molybdenum, antimony, selenium and zinc have been calculated and compared with the Recommended Dietary Allowance/Estimated Safe and Adequate Dietary Intake values through consumption of 100 g dried fruit. Fairly adequate levels of calcium, cobalt, iron, potassium and magnesium were determined in these dried fruits while the contribution of chlorine, chromium, molybdenum and sodium to the Recommended Dietary Allowance was found to be insignificant. Apricot is a nutritionally rich source of potassium, magnesium and cobalt, while chlorine and manganese contents were found to be highest in dates. Figs are an ample source of calcium, iron, magnesium and manganese, whereas raisins provide the highest intake of chromium, molybdenum and sodium. The toxic element contents of these dry fruits are considerably below the tolerance limits.