The risk assessment of selenium exposure from food in the Slovak Republic

Selenium is a ubiquitous essential trace element originated from natural and anthropogenic sources. Effects of selenium on human health are ranging from protective to toxic (acute or chronic selenosis). Toxicity depends on the form of selenium in a compound and its bioavailability. Selenium occurs naturally in food and is worldwide approved as an additive into food and food supplements. The existing studies point out that the levels of selenium in food and the status of Slovak population are deficient. Considering the health effects of selenium, the adequate intake of selenium is important for human. Increased exposure of population to selenium from food in the SR is not probable. Therefore, due to health effects of selenium and intake of selenium from food in population of the SR, it is necessary to assess a risk from deficit of selenium.SK; sk; efsa.focalpoint@land.gov.s