The 3rd International Symposium on Trace Elements in Food 2009

The diet is the main source of trace elements and exposure to dietary trace elements has a direct impact on the health of hundreds of millions worldwide. Insufficient intake of essential trace elements is a global issue. The deficiencies of iron, zinc, iodine and selenium result in millions of people being affected by various diseases, with very serious consequences in those countries where malnutrition is widespread. On the other hand, the impact of toxic element species such as inorganic arsenic and methylmercury on whole populations has come to the fore again as a priority for both the scientific community and health authorities. The different facets of trace elements, from essentiality to toxicity, will be addressed throughout the symposium. Advancements in the different areas will be discussed and special attention will be paid to the means in order to prevent adverse health effects on those individuals and populations most vulnerable to trace-element inadequacies, excesses or imbalances.