Human exposure to fluoride from tea (Camellia sinensis) in a volcanic region—Canary Islands, Spain

Conclusions

The results obtained in the present study show that the greatest contribution of the fluoride intake is found in the mixed and black teas. The preparation of the tea with tap water confers higher fluoride levels than the fluoride contents in tea. Statistical analyses revealed the existence of significant differences between the mixed and black teas and the rest of the analyzed teas.

The consumption of mixed and black teas prepared with deionized water by children aged to 4–8 years confers high contribution percentages, considering that they are from the consumption of two cups (250 mL/cup) of tea daily. The global fluoride intake from the diet could overpass the UL value established in 2.5 mg/day by the EFSA with the consequent health risk. In addition, just one teacup more of the mixed and black teas prepared with La Laguna tap water is enough to reach the 100% of the UL. According to the obtained data, it is not recommendable the consumption of two teacups by children aged to 4–8 years. A minor consumption is advisable.

The consumption of mixed and black teas prepared with tap water from La Laguna by teens and adults confers contribution percentages under the 30% of the UL set in 7 mg/day by the EFSA. Then, the consumption of two teacups daily does not pose a health risk. However, it is necessary to consider other fluoride sources because the fluoride intake from the total daily consumption of food and beverages could reach the UL values with the consequent health risk. In addition, the consumption of some of the analyzed tea brands during pregnancy would cause neurological harm to an unborn child. It should be recommended to reduce the fluoride intake during pregnancy.