Nickel is a naturally occurring metal that can be found in trace amounts in various foods. FOODS.EDU.VN is here to help you navigate the world of nickel in food, especially if you have a nickel allergy or sensitivity. This guide provides a detailed overview of foods high in nickel, potential health implications, and practical tips for managing your nickel intake.
1. What Exactly is Nickel and Why is it in Our Food?
Nickel is a silvery-white metal widely used in industrial applications due to its resistance to corrosion and heat. But what foods contain nickel? Nickel naturally exists in the soil and water, which means it can be absorbed by plants and aquatic organisms that we consume as food. The amount of nickel in food depends on factors such as soil composition, water quality, and agricultural practices. Understanding the sources and levels of nickel in different foods is crucial for individuals managing nickel-related health concerns, and foods.edu.vn can provide detailed information on this.
1.1. Nickel’s Properties and Industrial Uses
Nickel’s unique properties make it essential in various industries. Its resistance to corrosion makes it ideal for stainless steel production, used extensively in cookware, utensils, and food processing equipment. According to the Nickel Institute, approximately 68% of nickel produced globally is used in stainless steel.
1.2. Natural Occurrence in Soil and Water
Nickel is a natural component of the Earth’s crust, and its presence in soil and water is unavoidable. The concentration of nickel in soil can vary significantly depending on geological factors and industrial activities. A study published in “Environmental Science & Technology” found that agricultural soils near industrial areas tend to have higher nickel levels.
1.3. Absorption by Plants and Aquatic Organisms
Plants absorb nickel from the soil through their roots, and aquatic organisms absorb it from the water. The degree of absorption varies depending on the species and environmental conditions. Research from the University of Agricultural Sciences indicates that certain plants, known as hyperaccumulators, can accumulate high levels of nickel in their tissues.
2. Why is Nickel in Food a Concern?
For most people, trace amounts of nickel in food are not a health concern. However, individuals with nickel allergy or Systemic Nickel Allergy Syndrome (SNAS) may experience adverse reactions upon consuming nickel-containing foods. Reactions can range from skin rashes to gastrointestinal distress. Let’s explore the health implications.
2.1. Nickel Allergy and Allergic Contact Dermatitis
Nickel allergy is one of the most common causes of allergic contact dermatitis, a skin condition characterized by redness, itching, and inflammation. The American Academy of Dermatology reports that approximately 15-20% of the general population is sensitive to nickel. Exposure to nickel, whether through direct contact or dietary intake, can trigger an allergic reaction in sensitized individuals.
2.2. Systemic Nickel Allergy Syndrome (SNAS)
SNAS is a condition characterized by systemic symptoms, such as gastrointestinal problems, neurological symptoms, and fatigue, in response to nickel ingestion. Research published in the “Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology” suggests that SNAS may affect up to 1-5% of the nickel-sensitive population.
2.3. Symptoms of Nickel Sensitivity
Symptoms of nickel sensitivity can vary from person to person and may include:
- Skin rashes (eczema, dermatitis)
- Itching
- Hives
- Gastrointestinal distress (abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea)
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Neurological symptoms (brain fog, tingling)
2.4. Diagnosing Nickel Allergy
If you suspect you have a nickel allergy, it’s essential to consult with an allergist or dermatologist for proper diagnosis. Common diagnostic methods include patch testing, where small amounts of nickel are applied to the skin to observe for allergic reactions.
3. What Foods Contain Nickel? A Comprehensive List
What foods contain nickel? Many foods naturally contain nickel, but the levels can vary widely. Here’s a comprehensive list of foods known to contain higher nickel levels, categorized for easy reference:
3.1. Grains and Cereals
Grains and cereals are significant contributors to dietary nickel intake, particularly whole grains. Here’s a breakdown:
| Grain/Cereal | Nickel Content (mg/kg) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Wheat Flour | 12.70 | Studies show relatively high nickel content. |
| Oats | Varies | Can vary based on growing conditions and processing. |
| Buckwheat | Varies | Similar to oats, nickel content is dependent on environmental factors. |
| Whole Wheat | Higher than refined | Whole wheat generally contains more nickel due to the presence of the bran and germ, which accumulate minerals. |
| Wheat Germ | High | Concentrated source of nickel. |
| Multi-Grain Breads | Varies | Depends on the types and proportions of grains used. |
| Brown Rice | Higher than white | Unpolished brown rice retains more of the outer layers, which contain higher levels of nickel. A study in the “Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry” found that brown rice contains significantly more nickel than white rice. |
| Processed Cereals | Varies | Can vary depending on the processing methods and added ingredients. For example, cereals fortified with minerals may have higher nickel content. |
| Gluten-Free Grains | Varies | Some gluten-free grains like quinoa and amaranth may contain nickel. |
| Corn | Low to Moderate | The nickel content in corn can vary, but it is generally lower compared to wheat and oats. Research from the University of Illinois indicates that corn grown in nickel-rich soils can accumulate higher levels of the metal. |
| Rye | Moderate | Rye is a common grain in many European diets and can contribute to nickel intake. A study in the “Journal of Trace Elements in Medicine and Biology” found that rye bread made from conventionally grown rye had moderate levels of nickel. |
| Barley | Moderate | Barley is another cereal grain that can contain nickel. The level of nickel can vary depending on the soil and water conditions in which the barley is grown. |
| Spelt | Moderate to High | Spelt is an ancient grain related to wheat and can have a higher nickel content compared to some other grains. A study in the “Journal of Cereal Science” found that spelt grains can accumulate nickel depending on the soil conditions. |
| Millet | Low to Moderate | Millet is a group of small-seeded grasses often used in gluten-free diets. The nickel content in millet is generally lower than that in wheat or oats, but it can still contribute to overall nickel intake. |
| Teff | Low to Moderate | Teff is a fine grain native to Ethiopia and is often used in gluten-free baking. The nickel content in teff is generally lower than in wheat, but it can vary depending on the soil in which it is grown. |
| Sorghum | Low to Moderate | Sorghum is a cereal grain widely used in Africa and Asia. The nickel content in sorghum is generally lower than in wheat or oats, but it can still be a source of nickel in the diet, especially in regions where it is a staple food. |
| Wild Rice | Moderate | Wild rice is a grain native to North America and has a nutty flavor. The nickel content in wild rice is moderate and can vary depending on the water and soil conditions in which it is grown. |
| Triticale | Moderate | Triticale is a hybrid of wheat and rye and has a similar nickel content to both grains. The level of nickel in triticale can depend on the soil in which it is grown and the agricultural practices used. |
| Kamut | Moderate to High | Kamut is an ancient grain related to wheat and can have a higher nickel content compared to some other grains. The nickel content in kamut can vary depending on the soil conditions and growing practices. |
| Freekeh | Moderate | Freekeh is a grain made from young green wheat that is roasted. The nickel content in freekeh is moderate and can be a source of nickel in the diet, especially for those who consume it regularly. |
| Bulgur | Moderate | Bulgur is a grain made from cracked wheat that is parboiled and dried. The nickel content in bulgur is moderate and can vary depending on the soil and processing methods used. |
| Couscous | Moderate | Couscous is a grain made from small balls of semolina flour. The nickel content in couscous is moderate and similar to that of other wheat-based products. |
| Semolina | Moderate | Semolina is a coarse, pale-yellow flour made from durum wheat. The nickel content in semolina is moderate and can contribute to the overall nickel intake, especially when consumed in large quantities. |
| Durum Wheat | Moderate | Durum wheat is a hard wheat used to make pasta. The nickel content in durum wheat is moderate and can vary depending on the soil conditions and growing practices. |
| Emmer | Moderate to High | Emmer is an ancient grain related to wheat and can have a higher nickel content compared to some other grains. The nickel content in emmer can vary depending on the soil conditions and growing practices. |
| Einkorn | Moderate to High | Einkorn is an ancient grain and is the oldest variety of wheat. The nickel content in einkorn can be higher compared to modern wheat varieties, depending on the soil and growing conditions. |
| Polenta | Low to Moderate | Polenta is a dish made from cornmeal and is popular in Italian cuisine. The nickel content in polenta is generally lower compared to wheat-based products but can vary depending on the corn used. |
| Grits | Low to Moderate | Grits are a dish made from coarsely ground corn and are a staple in the Southern United States. The nickel content in grits is generally lower compared to wheat-based products but can vary depending on the corn used. |
| Tapioca | Very Low | Tapioca is a starch extracted from the cassava root and is often used in gluten-free baking. The nickel content in tapioca is very low, making it a suitable option for individuals with nickel sensitivities. |
| Arrowroot | Very Low | Arrowroot is a starch obtained from the roots of the arrowroot plant. The nickel content in arrowroot is very low, making it a safe option for those following a low-nickel diet. |
| Sago | Very Low | Sago is a starch extracted from the pith of sago palm trees. The nickel content in sago is very low, making it a suitable alternative for individuals avoiding nickel. |
| Potato Starch | Very Low | Potato starch is derived from potatoes and is often used as a thickener in cooking. The nickel content in potato starch is very low, making it a safe option for those with nickel sensitivities. |
| Rice Noodles | Low to Moderate | Rice noodles are made from rice flour and are a popular alternative to wheat noodles. The nickel content in rice noodles can vary depending on the type of rice used and the manufacturing process. |
| Corn Tortillas | Low to Moderate | Corn tortillas are made from corn and are a staple in Mexican cuisine. The nickel content in corn tortillas is generally lower compared to wheat tortillas but can vary depending on the corn used. |
| Rice Cakes | Low to Moderate | Rice cakes are made from puffed rice and are often used as a low-calorie snack. The nickel content in rice cakes can vary depending on the type of rice used and any added flavorings. |
| Oat Bran | Moderate to High | Oat bran is the outer layer of the oat grain and is rich in fiber. The nickel content in oat bran can be higher compared to other parts of the oat grain due to the concentration of minerals in the outer layers. |
| Wheat Bran | Moderate to High | Wheat bran is the outer layer of the wheat grain and is a good source of fiber. The nickel content in wheat bran can be higher compared to other parts of the wheat grain due to the concentration of minerals in the outer layers. |
| Granola | Varies | Granola is a breakfast cereal made from rolled oats, nuts, and sweeteners. The nickel content in granola can vary depending on the ingredients used, particularly the type of grains and nuts included. |
| Muesli | Varies | Muesli is a breakfast cereal made from rolled oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruits. The nickel content in muesli can vary depending on the ingredients used, particularly the type of grains and nuts included. |
| Cream of Wheat | Moderate | Cream of Wheat is a breakfast cereal made from semolina. The nickel content in Cream of Wheat is moderate and can contribute to overall nickel intake, especially when consumed regularly. |
| Farina | Moderate | Farina is a milled wheat product used as a breakfast cereal. The nickel content in farina is moderate and can vary depending on the type of wheat used. |
| Malted Grains | Moderate | Malted grains are grains that have been germinated and then dried. The malting process can affect the nickel content of the grains, and malted grains may have moderate levels of nickel. |
| Pretzels | Varies | Pretzels are baked goods made from wheat flour and salt. The nickel content in pretzels can vary depending on the type of flour used and any added ingredients. |
| Crackers | Varies | Crackers are baked goods made from wheat flour and other ingredients. The nickel content in crackers can vary depending on the type of flour used and any added flavorings. |
| Flatbreads | Varies | Flatbreads are unleavened breads made from wheat flour. The nickel content in flatbreads can vary depending on the type of flour used and any added ingredients. |
| Naan | Varies | Naan is a leavened flatbread popular in Indian cuisine. The nickel content in naan can vary depending on the type of flour used and any added ingredients. |
| Pita Bread | Varies | Pita bread is a leavened flatbread popular in Middle Eastern cuisine. The nickel content in pita bread can vary depending on the type of flour used and any added ingredients. |
| Tortillas | Varies | Tortillas are thin, flat breads made from either wheat or corn. The nickel content in tortillas can vary depending on the type of grain used and any added ingredients. |
| Breadsticks | Varies | Breadsticks are dry, crispy bread products made from wheat flour. The nickel content in breadsticks can vary depending on the type of flour used and any added flavorings. |
| Croissants | Varies | Croissants are buttery, flaky pastries made from wheat flour. The nickel content in croissants can vary depending on the type of flour used and the ingredients included in the dough. |
| Bagels | Varies | Bagels are dense, chewy breads made from wheat flour. The nickel content in bagels can vary depending on the type of flour used and any added ingredients. |
| Muffins | Varies | Muffins are baked goods made from wheat flour and other ingredients. The nickel content in muffins can vary depending on the type of flour used and any added flavorings. |
| Scones | Varies | Scones are baked goods made from wheat flour and other ingredients. The nickel content in scones can vary depending on the type of flour used and any added flavorings. |
| Biscuits | Varies | Biscuits are baked goods made from wheat flour and other ingredients. The nickel content in biscuits can vary depending on the type of flour used and any added flavorings. |
| Doughnuts | Varies | Doughnuts are fried or baked goods made from wheat flour and other ingredients. The nickel content in doughnuts can vary depending on the type of flour used and the ingredients included in the dough. |
| Pancakes | Varies | Pancakes are flat cakes made from batter and cooked on a griddle. The nickel content in pancakes can vary depending on the type of flour used and any added ingredients. |
| Waffles | Varies | Waffles are flat cakes cooked in a waffle iron. The nickel content in waffles can vary depending on the type of flour used and any added ingredients. |
| Crepes | Varies | Crepes are thin pancakes made from batter and cooked on a griddle. The nickel content in crepes can vary depending on the type of flour used and any added ingredients. |
| French Toast | Varies | French toast is made by soaking bread in eggs and milk and then frying it. The nickel content in French toast can vary depending on the type of bread used and any added ingredients. |
| English Muffins | Varies | English muffins are yeast-leavened breads cooked on a griddle. The nickel content in English muffins can vary depending on the type of flour used and any added ingredients. |
| Popovers | Varies | Popovers are light, hollow rolls made from batter and baked in a hot oven. The nickel content in popovers can vary depending on the type of flour used and any added ingredients. |
| Yorkshire Pudding | Varies | Yorkshire pudding is a baked dish made from batter and traditionally served with roast beef. The nickel content in Yorkshire pudding can vary depending on the type of flour used and any added ingredients. |
| Dumplings | Varies | Dumplings are made from dough and can be boiled, steamed, or fried. The nickel content in dumplings can vary depending on the type of flour used and the filling ingredients. |
| Pasta | Varies | Pasta is made from durum wheat and comes in various shapes and sizes. The nickel content in pasta can vary depending on the type of wheat used and the manufacturing process. |
| Noodles | Varies | Noodles are made from various types of flour and can be boiled, steamed, or fried. The nickel content in noodles can vary depending on the type of flour used and the cooking method. |
| Lasagna | Varies | Lasagna is a baked dish made from layers of pasta, sauce, and cheese. The nickel content in lasagna can vary depending on the type of pasta, sauce, and cheese used. |
| Ravioli | Varies | Ravioli are pasta pockets filled with various ingredients. The nickel content in ravioli can vary depending on the type of pasta, filling, and sauce used. |
| Tortellini | Varies | Tortellini are ring-shaped pasta filled with various ingredients. The nickel content in tortellini can vary depending on the type of pasta, filling, and sauce used. |
| Gnocchi | Varies | Gnocchi are small dumplings made from potatoes, flour, or semolina. The nickel content in gnocchi can vary depending on the ingredients used and the cooking method. |
| Pierogi | Varies | Pierogi are dumplings filled with various ingredients and popular in Eastern European cuisine. The nickel content in pierogi can vary depending on the type of dough and filling ingredients used. |
| Spring Rolls | Varies | Spring rolls are filled pastries popular in Asian cuisine. The nickel content in spring rolls can vary depending on the type of wrapper and filling ingredients used. |
| Egg Rolls | Varies | Egg rolls are filled pastries similar to spring rolls and popular in Asian cuisine. The nickel content in egg rolls can vary depending on the type of wrapper and filling ingredients used. |
| Empanadas | Varies | Empanadas are filled pastries popular in Latin American cuisine. The nickel content in empanadas can vary depending on the type of dough and filling ingredients used. |
| Samosas | Varies | Samosas are filled pastries popular in Indian cuisine. The nickel content in samosas can vary depending on the type of dough and filling ingredients used. |
| Quiche | Varies | Quiche is a savory tart made from eggs, cheese, and other ingredients. The nickel content in quiche can vary depending on the crust and filling ingredients used. |
| Frittata | Varies | Frittata is an egg-based dish similar to an omelet or quiche. The nickel content in frittata can vary depending on the ingredients used, such as vegetables, cheese, and meats. |
| Soufflé | Varies | Soufflé is a baked dish made from eggs and other ingredients and known for its light and airy texture. The nickel content in soufflé can vary depending on the ingredients used, such as cheese, vegetables, and sauces. |
| Yorkshire Pudding | Varies | Yorkshire pudding is a baked dish made from batter and traditionally served with roast beef. The nickel content in Yorkshire pudding can vary depending on the type of flour used and any added ingredients. |
| Croutons | Varies | Croutons are toasted bread cubes often used in salads and soups. The nickel content in croutons can vary depending on the type of bread used and any added seasonings. |
| Stuffing | Varies | Stuffing is a dish made from bread and other ingredients and used to fill poultry or vegetables. The nickel content in stuffing can vary depending on the type of bread, vegetables, and seasonings used. |
| Breadcrumbs | Varies | Breadcrumbs are made from dried bread and used to coat foods before frying or baking. The nickel content in breadcrumbs can vary depending on the type of bread used and any added seasonings. |
| Panko Breadcrumbs | Varies | Panko breadcrumbs are Japanese-style breadcrumbs that are coarser and lighter than traditional breadcrumbs. The nickel content in panko breadcrumbs can vary depending on the type of bread used and any added seasonings. |
| Melba Toast | Varies | Melba toast is a dry, crisp toast made from wheat bread. The nickel content in Melba toast can vary depending on the type of bread used and any added seasonings. |
| Matzah | Varies | Matzah is an unleavened bread traditionally eaten during Passover. The nickel content in matzah can vary depending on the type of flour used and any added seasonings. |
| Rusks | Varies | Rusks are hard, dry biscuits or twice-baked bread. The nickel content in rusks can vary depending on the type of flour used and any added seasonings. |
| Biscotti | Varies | Biscotti are Italian almond biscuits that are twice-baked and very dry. The nickel content in biscotti can vary depending on the type of flour and nuts used, as well as any added flavorings. |
| Shortbread | Varies | Shortbread is a buttery biscuit traditionally made from butter, flour, and sugar. The nickel content in shortbread can vary depending on the type of flour and butter used, as well as any added flavorings. |
| Gingerbread | Varies | Gingerbread is a baked good flavored with ginger and other spices. The nickel content in gingerbread can vary depending on the type of flour and spices used, as well as any added sweeteners. |
| Spice Cake | Varies | Spice cake is a cake flavored with various spices. The nickel content in spice cake can vary depending on the type of flour and spices used, as well as any added sweeteners. |
| Fruitcake | Varies | Fruitcake is a cake made with dried fruits, nuts, and spices. The nickel content in fruitcake can vary depending on the ingredients used, as dried fruits and nuts can contain nickel. |
| Cornbread | Varies | Cornbread is a bread made from cornmeal. The nickel content in cornbread can vary depending on the type of cornmeal used and any added ingredients. |
| Sourdough Bread | Varies | Sourdough bread is made from fermented dough and has a slightly sour taste. The nickel content in sourdough bread can vary depending on the type of flour used and the fermentation process. |
| Banana Bread | Varies | Banana bread is a sweet bread made from mashed bananas and flour. The nickel content in banana bread can vary depending on the type of flour and bananas used, as well as any added ingredients like nuts or chocolate. |
| Zucchini Bread | Varies | Zucchini bread is a sweet bread made from shredded zucchini and flour. The nickel content in zucchini bread can vary depending on the type of flour and zucchini used, as well as any added ingredients like nuts or chocolate. |
| Carrot Cake | Varies | Carrot cake is a sweet cake made from shredded carrots and flour. The nickel content in carrot cake can vary depending on the type of flour and carrots used, as well as any added ingredients like nuts or cream cheese frosting. |
| Pumpkin Bread | Varies | Pumpkin bread is a sweet bread made from pumpkin puree and flour. The nickel content in pumpkin bread can vary depending on the type of flour and pumpkin used, as well as any added spices. |
| Date Bread | Varies | Date bread is a sweet bread made from chopped dates and flour. The nickel content in date bread can vary depending on the type of flour and dates used, as well as any added nuts. |
| Raisin Bread | Varies | Raisin bread is a sweet bread made from raisins and flour. The nickel content in raisin bread can vary depending on the type of flour and raisins used, as well as any added spices. |
| Gluten-Free Bread | Varies | Gluten-free bread is made from alternative flours and starches. The nickel content in gluten-free bread can vary depending on the types of flours and starches used, as well as any added ingredients. |
| Multigrain Bread | Varies | Multigrain bread is made from a combination of different grains. The nickel content in multigrain bread can vary depending on the types of grains used, as well as any added ingredients. |
| Whole Wheat Bread | Moderate to High | Whole wheat bread is made from whole wheat flour. The nickel content in whole wheat bread can be higher than white bread due to the presence of the bran and germ, which accumulate more minerals. |
| White Bread | Low to Moderate | White bread is made from refined wheat flour. The nickel content in white bread is generally lower than whole wheat bread due to the removal of the bran and germ during processing. |
| Rye Bread | Moderate | Rye bread is made from rye flour. The nickel content in rye bread can vary depending on the type of rye flour used and any added ingredients. |
Wheat Flour
3.2. Legumes
Legumes such as beans, lentils, and peas tend to have higher nickel content due to their ability to absorb minerals from the soil.
| Legume | Nickel Content (mg/kg) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Soybeans | High | Soybeans and soy-based products such as tofu and soy milk can be high in nickel, depending on the soil in which they are grown. |
| Beans | Varies | Nickel content varies among different types of beans, but many beans contain significant levels of nickel. |
| Lentils | Varies | Similar to beans, lentils can vary in nickel content based on growing conditions. |
| Peas | Varies | Peas, especially dried peas, can contain notable amounts of nickel. |
| Chickpeas | Moderate | Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, can have moderate nickel content. |
| Peanuts | Moderate | Peanuts and peanut products can contain moderate levels of nickel. |
| Black Beans | Moderate | Black beans are a common legume in many diets and can contribute to nickel intake. |
| Kidney Beans | Moderate | Kidney beans, a type of common bean, contain moderate levels of nickel. |
| Navy Beans | Moderate | Navy beans, another type of common bean, have moderate nickel content. |
| Pinto Beans | Moderate | Pinto beans, widely used in Mexican cuisine, contain moderate amounts of nickel. |
| Lima Beans | Moderate | Lima beans, also known as butter beans, have moderate nickel content. |
| Broad Beans | Moderate | Broad beans, or fava beans, can have moderate levels of nickel. |
| Green Beans | Low to Moderate | Green beans, when young and fresh, generally have lower nickel content. |
| Snow Peas | Low to Moderate | Snow peas, like green beans, typically contain less nickel than dried legumes. |
| Sugar Snap Peas | Low to Moderate | Sugar snap peas are similar to snow peas and green beans, with generally lower nickel content when fresh. |
| Edamame | Moderate | Edamame, or young soybeans, can have moderate nickel content similar to mature soybeans. |
| Mung Beans | Moderate | Mung beans, often used in Asian cuisine, contain moderate levels of nickel. |
| Adzuki Beans | Moderate | Adzuki beans, commonly used in East Asian desserts, have moderate nickel content. |
| Cowpeas | Moderate | Cowpeas, also known as black-eyed peas, contain moderate levels of nickel. |
| Winged Beans | Moderate | Winged beans, less common in Western diets, can have moderate nickel content. |
| Lupini Beans | Moderate | Lupini beans, popular in Mediterranean cuisine, contain moderate levels of nickel. |
| Fava Beans | Moderate | Fava beans, also known as broad beans, have moderate nickel content. |
| Garbanzo Beans | Moderate | Garbanzo beans, or chickpeas, contain moderate levels of nickel. |
| Split Peas | Moderate | Split peas, often used in soups, contain moderate levels of nickel. |
| Yellow Peas | Moderate | Yellow peas are a type of field pea that contains moderate levels of nickel. |
| Pigeon Peas | Moderate | Pigeon peas are a common legume in many parts of the world and contain moderate amounts of nickel. |
| Lentil Sprouts | Low to Moderate | Lentil sprouts have a lower nickel content compared to mature lentils, but it can still vary. |
| Bean Sprouts | Low to Moderate | Bean sprouts, like lentil sprouts, have lower nickel content compared to the mature beans. |
| Alfalfa Sprouts | Low to Moderate | Alfalfa sprouts are often used in salads and sandwiches and typically have low to moderate nickel content. |
| Clover Sprouts | Low to Moderate | Clover sprouts are less common but can be used in salads and sandwiches and have low to moderate nickel content. |
| Radish Sprouts | Low to Moderate | Radish sprouts add a spicy flavor to dishes and have low to moderate nickel content. |
| Broccoli Sprouts | Low to Moderate | Broccoli sprouts are rich in nutrients and have low to moderate nickel content. |
| Sunflower Seed Sprouts | Low to Moderate | Sunflower seed sprouts have a nutty flavor and low to moderate nickel content. |
| Mung Bean Sprouts | Low to Moderate | Mung bean sprouts are commonly used in Asian cuisine and have low to moderate nickel content. |
| Adzuki Bean Sprouts | Low to Moderate | Adzuki bean sprouts are less common but have low to moderate nickel content. |
| Black Bean Sprouts | Low to Moderate | Black bean sprouts are often used in Mexican cuisine and have low to moderate nickel content. |
| Kidney Bean Sprouts | Low to Moderate | Kidney bean sprouts are less common but can be used in various dishes and have low to moderate nickel content. |
| Navy Bean Sprouts | Low to Moderate | Navy bean sprouts are less common but can be used in various dishes and have low to moderate nickel content. |
| Pinto Bean Sprouts | Low to Moderate | Pinto bean sprouts are often used in Mexican cuisine and have low to moderate nickel content. |
| Chickpea Sprouts | Low to Moderate | Chickpea sprouts have a nutty flavor and low to moderate nickel content. |
| Pea Sprouts | Low to Moderate | Pea sprouts are the tender shoots of pea plants and have low to moderate nickel content. |
| Soybean Sprouts | Low to Moderate | Soybean sprouts are often used in Asian cuisine and have low to moderate nickel content. |
| Peanut Sprouts | Low to Moderate | Peanut sprouts are less common but have low to moderate nickel content. |
| Lupini Bean Sprouts | Low to Moderate | Lupini bean sprouts are less common but have low to moderate nickel content. |
| Cowpea Sprouts | Low to Moderate | Cowpea sprouts are less common but have low to moderate nickel content. |
| Fava Bean Sprouts | Low to Moderate | Fava bean sprouts are less common but have low to moderate nickel content. |
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3.3. Nuts and Seeds
Certain nuts and seeds can accumulate nickel from the soil, making them potential sources of dietary nickel.
| Nut/Seed | Nickel Content (mg/kg) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cashews | High | Cashews are known to have relatively high nickel content. |
| Almonds | Moderate | Almonds contain moderate levels of nickel. |
| Hazelnuts | Moderate | Hazelnuts can contribute to nickel intake. |
| Walnuts | Low to Moderate | Walnuts generally have lower nickel content compared to cashews and almonds. |
| Brazil Nuts | Low to Moderate | Brazil nuts, like walnuts, typically contain lower levels of nickel. |
| Macadamia Nuts | Low | Macadamia nuts are relatively low in nickel. |
| Pecans | Low to Moderate |
