What foods are high in beryllium?

Kidney beans are notably high in beryllium compared to other common foods, with concentrations significantly exceeding those found in bananas or other types of beans.

Understanding Beryllium in Food

Beryllium is a naturally occurring element found in the earth's crust, and small amounts can be present in various foods due to its uptake from soil. While dietary exposure is generally considered low, certain foods can accumulate higher concentrations. Identifying which foods contain higher levels of beryllium contributes to a better understanding of potential dietary intake.

Foods with Elevated Beryllium Content

Based on available data, **kidney beans** have demonstrated a significantly higher concentration of beryllium per fresh weight compared to other surveyed food items. For comparison, bananas and general beans also contain beryllium, but their levels are considerably lower.

Here is a comparison of beryllium concentrations in selected fresh foods:

Product	Mean Concentration (µg beryllium/kg fresh weight)
Kidney Beans	2,200
Bananas, pulp	4.2
Beans	0.07

Note: Concentrations are reported in micrograms of beryllium per kilogram of fresh weight (µg/kg).

This data highlights that kidney beans can contribute a substantially higher amount of beryllium to the diet than comparable portions of bananas or other types of beans.

Why is Beryllium in Food Important?

While beryllium is naturally present in the environment, high levels of exposure, particularly through inhalation, can pose health risks. Dietary intake is generally considered a minor route of exposure for most people. However, studying the elemental composition of different food items helps to understand potential dietary contributions and overall exposure levels. For more general information on beryllium and its health effects, you can refer to reputable resources such as the [Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR)](https://wwwn.cdc.gov/TSP/ToxFAQs/TF.asp?id=36&tid=13).

Key Considerations for Dietary Awareness

* **Kidney beans** stand out for their elevated beryllium content among the examples provided. * The concentration of beryllium can vary significantly across different food types. * Although dietary exposure to beryllium is generally low, specific food choices can influence an individual's intake.