[Selenium concentration in food consumed in Brazil].
OBJECTIVE
To determine the selenium content of foods consumed in Brazil.


METHODS
The project was carried out between 1993 and 1999. The food samples were collected in stores in several Brazilian states. The levels of selenium were determined by hydride generation atomic absorption spectrophotometry and by wet oxidation.


RESULTS
The highest levels of selenium were found in animal products, especially fish, and in wheat products. We found that plant products generally had selenium levels of less than 5.0 micrograms/100 g.


CONCLUSIONS
In Brazil a diet rich in animal products, especially fish, is important in ensuring consumption of the recommended levels of selenium.
Ferreira
Karla Silva
KS
Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense (UENF), Centro de Ciências e Tecnologias Agropecuárias, Laboratório de Tecnologia de Alimentos, Avenida Alberto Lamêgo 2000, Horto, CEP 28015-620, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brasil. karlasf@uenf.br
Gomes
José Carlos
JC
Bellato
Carlos Roberto
CR
Jordão
Cláudio Pereira
CP
D001938:Brazil; D005506:Food Contamination / Q000032:analysis*; D012643:Selenium / Q000032:analysis*
D012643:Selenium