Pablo Gago
Senior Scientist at the Institute of Environmental Diagnosis and Water Studies at CSIC (IDAEA-CSIC) and visiting professor at SLU Swedish University of Agricultural Science (Sweden)
This study is well-founded and uses a robust technique such as mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) to quantify both essential and potentially toxic elements in bananas following the volcanic eruption on La Palma. It is particularly interesting that it includes elements that have been little studied in volcanic contexts, such as rare earth elements, and that it compares both before and after the eruption, as well as different geographical areas.
This approach allows the results to be put into context. Although increases in some elements are detected in bananas from the affected area, the concentrations are well below levels that could pose a risk to human health. For consumers, the message is clear: bananas remain safe and nutritious.
The study also highlights the importance of regular monitoring of crops in volcanic regions, especially in the face of extreme events that can alter the chemical composition of the soil and air.