Researchers from the University of São Paulo, the Federal University of Espírito Santo, and the University of Santiago de Compostela studied crops grown in soil contaminated by the 2015 mining disaster in Brazil.[1][2] The disaster caused the collapse of the Fundão Dam, which released waste from iron production into the Doce River and the estuary in Linhares, Espírito Santo.[1][2] They analyzed bananas, cassava, and cocoa, where they found elevated levels of cadmium, chromium, copper, nickel, and lead associated with iron oxides.[1][2] Bananas absorbed these toxic metals, with TRI (total risk index) values exceeding 1 for children under 6, mainly due to lead and cadmium above FAO recommendations.[1] For adults, TRI values were below 1, indicating lower immediate risk.[1] Long-term exposure to lead can affect brain development in children, including a decline in IQ and problems with attention and behavior.[1] Scientists emphasize the movement of toxic elements from soil through water to plants.[2]