Bioaccessibility of trace elements and chromium speciation in commonly consumed cereals and pulses

Copper, manganese, and chromium content and their bioaccessibility were determined in commonly consumed cereals and pulses. Copper, manganese, and chromium concentration of these grains ranged from 0.19 to 1.22, 0.46 to 8.12, and 0.02 to 0.11 mg/100 g, respectively. Bioaccessibility of these minerals from the grains ranged from 6.6 to 32.5% (copper), 15.5 to 43.5% (manganese), and 2.66 to 36.4% (chromium). In terms of bioaccessibility of these minerals, pulses provided more than cereals. Speciation analysis of chromium by selective alkaline method demonstrated the presence of the toxic hexavalent chromium in lower concentration than trivalent form.