The objective of the current research was to determine the concentration of heavy metals and trace minerals in six fruit and vegetable samples (Cucumber, Cauliflower, Watermelon, Apple Gourd and Onion) collected from different sources in the Delhi-NCR region. The concentration was analyzed for eight metals: Sodium, Calcium, Magnesium, Potassium, Zinc, Lead, Cadmium and Mercury by using ICP-MS whereas iron concentration was analysed by Thiocyanate calorimetry. The samples were prepared by dry ashing method. The analysis results for the heavy metals (Zinc, Cadmium, Mercury and Lead) were found to be below 1ppm level which is the legal limit as per Food safety and standards (contaminants, toxins and residues) regulation, 2011. The trace minerals were also found to be below their toxic dosage which may cause any harm to body upon ingestion. The results of analysis of trace minerals showed that that although there was variation in concentration of four trace metals namely: Sodium, Magnesium, Potassium and Calcium in fruit and vegetable samples collected from different sources of the same species yet the concentration of the trace metals was below the toxicity dosage. Therefore the fruit and vegetables samples under study will not cause any harm to the consumer in relation to the trace minerals content upon ingestion.
