CYANTIR - Risk evaluation of irrigation of lettuce, carrots and strawberries with water contaminated with microcystine

Health risks of residual microcystine concentrations
Within the CYANTIR project, we investigate the possible health risks of irrigation practices with microcystine contaminated water. More specifically microcystin-LR (MC-LR), which is the most prevalent toxin produced by cyanobacteria. After irrigation, residual concentrations of microcystin can therefore be present in- or on- the crops and can be absorbed by the human body after consumption. 

Research set-up
We selected three crops, that are mostly consumed raw, for this study e.g. lettuce, carrot and strawberry. They are irrigated under controlled circumstances with microcystin spiked water. Multiple concentrations of MC-LR will be tested. These concentrations are based on relevant literature in this field. 
Specifically for strawberry and carrots, 2 irrigation methods are compared. The cultivation conditions and the irrigation with contaminated water mimic the common practice as closely as possible.

Calculation of exposure
We are making various quantitative (fresh weight, number of fruits per plant) and qualitative (phytotoxicity, damage, discoloration) observations during the trial. The microcystin content present in- the plant is determined at 3 different times: 

• 1 week before harvest
• at harvest 
• and 1 week after storage 

We are using a LC-MS/MS method for this purpose. We perform a risk assessment based on consumer exposure pathways and exposure media. To calculate the exposure, we use a deterministic approach based on the latest Belgian consumption survey according to EFSA protocols.

More information on the project