Heavy metals in Winter squash

Quick read

Winter squash in the HMI library has 247 reported results for lead, cadmium, total arsenic, inorganic arsenic, dimethylarsinic acid, monomethylarsonic acid, total mercury, nickel, chromium, aluminium, tin, antimony, uranium, Co, Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn, V, Se, Ba, Mo, Sr and Ti from 26 sources.^{1World Health Organization · 2026GEMS/Food Contaminants database heavy-metal exportsGEMS/Food Contamination Monitoring and Assessment ProgrammeRead source →}^{2U.S. Food and Drug Administration · 2022FY2018-FY2020 TDS Elements Analytical ResultsFDA Total Diet StudyRead source →}^{3Antoine JMR, Hoo Fung LA, Grant CN · 2017Assessment of the potential health risks associated with the aluminium, arsenic, cadmium and lead content in selected fruits and vegetables grown in JamaicaToxicology Reports 4 (2017) 181-187Read source →}^{4Banyen S · 2013Anodic Stripping Voltammetry for Simultaneous Determination of Heavy Metals in VegetablesKMITL Science Journal (Ladkrabang) 22(1), January-June 2556 B.E., pp. 84-99Read source →}^{5Chowdhury AI, Shill LC, Raihan MM, Rashid R, Bhuiyan MNH, Reza S, Alam MR · 2024Human health risk assessment of heavy metals in vegetables of BangladeshScientific Reports 2024, 14: 15616Read source →}^{6Guerra F, Trevizam AR, Muraoka T, Marcante NC, Canniatti-Brazaca SG · 2012Heavy metals in vegetables and potential risk for human healthScientia Agricola 69(1):54-60Read source →}

Metals measured:
Lead, cadmium, total arsenic, inorganic arsenic, dimethylarsinic acid and monomethylarsonic acid and others, in 247 results from 26 sources.^{1World Health Organization · 2026GEMS/Food Contaminants database heavy-metal exportsGEMS/Food Contamination Monitoring and Assessment ProgrammeRead source →}^{2U.S. Food and Drug Administration · 2022FY2018-FY2020 TDS Elements Analytical ResultsFDA Total Diet StudyRead source →}^{3Antoine JMR, Hoo Fung LA, Grant CN · 2017Assessment of the potential health risks associated with the aluminium, arsenic, cadmium and lead content in selected fruits and vegetables grown in JamaicaToxicology Reports 4 (2017) 181-187Read source →}^{4Banyen S · 2013Anodic Stripping Voltammetry for Simultaneous Determination of Heavy Metals in VegetablesKMITL Science Journal (Ladkrabang) 22(1), January-June 2556 B.E., pp. 84-99Read source →}
Main drivers:
Winter squash, as sold from evening purchase had lead higher at 840 µg/kg, against 430 µg/kg for all samples in the same study.^{7Dada AO, Makanjuola BC, Adewumi MO · 2024Level of Heavy Metals in Commonly Consumed Leafy Vegetables Sold in Major Markets within Ibadan Metropolis, South Western, NigeriaJournal of Environment Pollution and Human Health 12(2):24-30Read source →}
Practical framing:
Ask for lot results with a quantification limit well below the limit that applies in the destination market.^{1World Health Organization · 2026GEMS/Food Contaminants database heavy-metal exportsGEMS/Food Contamination Monitoring and Assessment ProgrammeRead source →}^{2U.S. Food and Drug Administration · 2022FY2018-FY2020 TDS Elements Analytical ResultsFDA Total Diet StudyRead source →}^{3Antoine JMR, Hoo Fung LA, Grant CN · 2017Assessment of the potential health risks associated with the aluminium, arsenic, cadmium and lead content in selected fruits and vegetables grown in JamaicaToxicology Reports 4 (2017) 181-187Read source →}^{4Banyen S · 2013Anodic Stripping Voltammetry for Simultaneous Determination of Heavy Metals in VegetablesKMITL Science Journal (Ladkrabang) 22(1), January-June 2556 B.E., pp. 84-99Read source →}

Winter squash overview

Winter squash in the HMI library has 247 reported results for lead, cadmium, total arsenic, inorganic arsenic, dimethylarsinic acid, monomethylarsonic acid, total mercury, nickel, chromium, aluminium, tin, antimony, uranium, Co, Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn, V, Se, Ba, Mo, Sr and Ti from 26 sources.^{1World Health Organization · 2026GEMS/Food Contaminants database heavy-metal exportsGEMS/Food Contamination Monitoring and Assessment ProgrammeRead source →}^{2U.S. Food and Drug Administration · 2022FY2018-FY2020 TDS Elements Analytical ResultsFDA Total Diet StudyRead source →}^{3Antoine JMR, Hoo Fung LA, Grant CN · 2017Assessment of the potential health risks associated with the aluminium, arsenic, cadmium and lead content in selected fruits and vegetables grown in JamaicaToxicology Reports 4 (2017) 181-187Read source →}^{4Banyen S · 2013Anodic Stripping Voltammetry for Simultaneous Determination of Heavy Metals in VegetablesKMITL Science Journal (Ladkrabang) 22(1), January-June 2556 B.E., pp. 84-99Read source →}^{5Chowdhury AI, Shill LC, Raihan MM, Rashid R, Bhuiyan MNH, Reza S, Alam MR · 2024Human health risk assessment of heavy metals in vegetables of BangladeshScientific Reports 2024, 14: 15616Read source →}^{6Guerra F, Trevizam AR, Muraoka T, Marcante NC, Canniatti-Brazaca SG · 2012Heavy metals in vegetables and potential risk for human healthScientia Agricola 69(1):54-60Read source →} WHO GEMS/Food submissions reported lead in winter squash, as sold from 443 results in 4 reporting regions, with subgroup medians from 1.3 to 70 µg/kg.^{1World Health Organization · 2026GEMS/Food Contaminants database heavy-metal exportsGEMS/Food Contamination Monitoring and Assessment ProgrammeRead source →} In the US Total Diet Study, winter squash, cooked had a median lead result below 4 µg/kg across 27 composites from 2017–2020.^{2U.S. Food and Drug Administration · 2022FY2018-FY2020 TDS Elements Analytical ResultsFDA Total Diet StudyRead source →}

Across 5 other studies of ordinary farms and markets, reported lead means and medians on an as-sold or fresh-weight basis ranged from 6 µg/kg (Antoine et al. 2017) to 4,230 µg/kg (Chowdhury et al. 2024).^{3Antoine JMR, Hoo Fung LA, Grant CN · 2017Assessment of the potential health risks associated with the aluminium, arsenic, cadmium and lead content in selected fruits and vegetables grown in JamaicaToxicology Reports 4 (2017) 181-187Read source →}^{5Chowdhury AI, Shill LC, Raihan MM, Rashid R, Bhuiyan MNH, Reza S, Alam MR · 2024Human health risk assessment of heavy metals in vegetables of BangladeshScientific Reports 2024, 14: 15616Read source →} For cadmium, 7 studies on an as-sold or fresh-weight basis reported means and medians from 2.2 µg/kg (Spungen et al. 2024) to 402 µg/kg (Chowdhury et al. 2024).^{5Chowdhury AI, Shill LC, Raihan MM, Rashid R, Bhuiyan MNH, Reza S, Alam MR · 2024Human health risk assessment of heavy metals in vegetables of BangladeshScientific Reports 2024, 14: 15616Read source →}^{8Spungen JH, et al. · 2024Infants’ and young children’s dietary exposures to lead and cadmium: FDA total diet study 2018-2020Food Additives & Contaminants: Part ARead source →} Higher results came from contaminated or exposed settings rather than ordinary supply. Winter squash, as sold from evening purchase had lead higher at 840 µg/kg, against 430 µg/kg for all samples in the same study.^{7Dada AO, Makanjuola BC, Adewumi MO · 2024Level of Heavy Metals in Commonly Consumed Leafy Vegetables Sold in Major Markets within Ibadan Metropolis, South Western, NigeriaJournal of Environment Pollution and Human Health 12(2):24-30Read source →}

For a buyer the practical points are the form bought, the basis a result is reported on, where the winter squash came from and the laboratory’s reporting limit. Testing finds contamination but does not remove it.

What counts as winter squash

This page covers winter squash in 4 forms kept separate in every comparison: winter squash, as sold (213 results), winter squash, cooked (16 results), winter squash, flour or meal (11 results) and winter squash, oil (7 results).^{1World Health Organization · 2026GEMS/Food Contaminants database heavy-metal exportsGEMS/Food Contamination Monitoring and Assessment ProgrammeRead source →}^{2U.S. Food and Drug Administration · 2022FY2018-FY2020 TDS Elements Analytical ResultsFDA Total Diet StudyRead source →}^{3Antoine JMR, Hoo Fung LA, Grant CN · 2017Assessment of the potential health risks associated with the aluminium, arsenic, cadmium and lead content in selected fruits and vegetables grown in JamaicaToxicology Reports 4 (2017) 181-187Read source →}^{4Banyen S · 2013Anodic Stripping Voltammetry for Simultaneous Determination of Heavy Metals in VegetablesKMITL Science Journal (Ladkrabang) 22(1), January-June 2556 B.E., pp. 84-99Read source →}^{5Chowdhury AI, Shill LC, Raihan MM, Rashid R, Bhuiyan MNH, Reza S, Alam MR · 2024Human health risk assessment of heavy metals in vegetables of BangladeshScientific Reports 2024, 14: 15616Read source →}^{6Guerra F, Trevizam AR, Muraoka T, Marcante NC, Canniatti-Brazaca SG · 2012Heavy metals in vegetables and potential risk for human healthScientia Agricola 69(1):54-60Read source →}

Results stay on the basis each source reports: as sold or fresh weight, dry weight, or unstated. Dry-weight, as-sold and unstated results are never pooled, and no moisture conversion is applied.

Heavy metal contamination profile of winter squash

The table holds every extracted winter squash result: one row for each statistic a source reports for a form, group and metal, 247 rows in all, grouped by metal and form; percentiles, ranges and maxima for the same samples as a mean or median are shown on that row.^{1World Health Organization · 2026GEMS/Food Contaminants database heavy-metal exportsGEMS/Food Contamination Monitoring and Assessment ProgrammeRead source →}^{2U.S. Food and Drug Administration · 2022FY2018-FY2020 TDS Elements Analytical ResultsFDA Total Diet StudyRead source →}^{3Antoine JMR, Hoo Fung LA, Grant CN · 2017Assessment of the potential health risks associated with the aluminium, arsenic, cadmium and lead content in selected fruits and vegetables grown in JamaicaToxicology Reports 4 (2017) 181-187Read source →}^{4Banyen S · 2013Anodic Stripping Voltammetry for Simultaneous Determination of Heavy Metals in VegetablesKMITL Science Journal (Ladkrabang) 22(1), January-June 2556 B.E., pp. 84-99Read source →}^{5Chowdhury AI, Shill LC, Raihan MM, Rashid R, Bhuiyan MNH, Reza S, Alam MR · 2024Human health risk assessment of heavy metals in vegetables of BangladeshScientific Reports 2024, 14: 15616Read source →}^{6Guerra F, Trevizam AR, Muraoka T, Marcante NC, Canniatti-Brazaca SG · 2012Heavy metals in vegetables and potential risk for human healthScientia Agricola 69(1):54-60Read source →} Monitoring medians are HMI calculations from individual submissions; non-detects remain intervals between zero and the reporting limit and are never read as zero.^{1World Health Organization · 2026GEMS/Food Contaminants database heavy-metal exportsGEMS/Food Contamination Monitoring and Assessment ProgrammeRead source →}

91 rows can be rated against an HMI reference for the same form and basis, 12 rows have a direct same-study comparison, and the rest stay unrated with the reason recorded. 6 values from 1 source failed a check against their own source and are shown but not compared.^{9Kawsar Hossen, Nahian Rahman, Zannatul Ferdowsi, Tahmina Ferdous · 2026Assessment of heavy metal levels and associated health risks linked to vegetables grown in Noakhali region of BangladeshEnvironmental Health InsightsRead source →}

Comparison methods and scope

Each row is one statistic a source reports for one form of winter squash, group and metal; percentiles, ranges and maxima reported for the same samples as a mean or median are shown on that row. Different forms and preparation states are kept apart, and dry-weight results never share a reference with as-sold or fresh-weight results. Ratings place a result against an HMI reference built from monitoring results and ordinary-setting medians for the same form and basis. Same-study contrasts compare a contaminated or treated site with its control, targeted with random sampling, a prepared form with the unprocessed one, or one group of a study with the median of its other groups. Held rows failed a check against their own source and are shown but not compared.

Filter findings

AnalyteFood formCollection regionCollection periodSourceCompare withComparable findings only

241 of 241 findings · 24 analytes

About this table

Food formCollection scopeFindingComparisonEvidence

Winter squash findings from monitoring programmes, total diet studies and every extracted field, market and contaminated-site study, in µg/kg with each source’s form, basis, statistic and censoring retained.
Food form	Collection scope	Finding (µg/kg)

39 findings · 17 studies
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	EURO2004–2019As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	EURO2006–2016As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	PAHO2015–2016As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	PAHO2019As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	PAHO2011–2014As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	PAHO2016–2017As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	PAHO2014As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	PAHO2000–2017As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	PAHO2014–2016As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	PAHO2014–2015As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	WPRO2004–2014As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	WPRO2009–2014As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	WPRO2000–2008As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	WPRO2002As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldAntoine et al. 2017	Jamaican-grown, markets and farms island-wide, all samplesCollection date unreportedAs sold / fresh	mean.
Winter squash, as soldBanyen 2013	Hua Takhe fresh market, Bangkok2011As sold / fresh	mean.
Winter squash, as soldChowdhury et al. 2024	fruit vegetable, three local markets, Noakhali district2022As sold / fresh	mean.
Winter squash, as soldGuerra et al. 2012	CEAGESP wholesale market2009As sold / fresh	mean.
Winter squash, as soldGuerra et al. 2012	CEAGESP wholesale market2009As sold / fresh	mean.
Winter squash, as soldGuerra et al. 2012	CEAGESP wholesale market2009As sold / fresh	mean.
Winter squash, as soldHossen et al. 2026	farm 72024As sold / fresh	mean.
Winter squash, as soldHoulihan et al. 2019	Vegetable2019As sold / fresh	sample value.
Winter squash, as soldU.S. Food and Drug Administration 2024	Vegetables, FY20232009–2024As sold / fresh	sample value.
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	AFRO2012Dry weight	median.
Winter squash, as soldAltıkulaç et al. 2025	Group II2021–2022Dry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldDada et al. 2024	all samplesCollection date unreportedDry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldDada et al. 2024	evening purchaseCollection date unreportedDry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldDada et al. 2024	morning purchaseCollection date unreportedDry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldRani et al. 2025	fruit vegetable2017–2018Dry weight	not detected.
Winter squash, as soldSharma et al. 2022	four market sites, Bareilly city (pooled)2018Dry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldSultana et al. 2021	all four phases, Kawran Bazar, DhakaCollection date unreportedDry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldSultana et al. 2021	sampling phase 1, Kawran Bazar, DhakaCollection date unreportedDry weight	not detected.
Winter squash, as soldSultana et al. 2021	sampling phase 2, Kawran Bazar, DhakaCollection date unreportedDry weight	sample value.
Winter squash, as soldSultana et al. 2021	sampling phase 3, Kawran Bazar, DhakaCollection date unreportedDry weight	sample value.
Winter squash, as soldSultana et al. 2021	sampling phase 4, Kawran Bazar, DhakaCollection date unreportedDry weight	sample value.
Winter squash, as soldAbbas et al. 2010	cucurbit vegetables2007–2008Basis not stated	mean.
Winter squash, as soldAkçay et al. 2023	market samples, Konya Province, Turkey (2021 products)2021Basis not stated	mean.
Winter squash, as soldauthors 2012	Pumpkin, farm samples from main producing regions across Korea2010–2011Basis not stated	mean.
Winter squash, as soldCentre for Food Safety (Hong Kong) 2013	all samples2010–2011Basis not stated	mean.
3 findings · 3 studies
Winter squash, cookedFDA Total Diet Study	6 collection regions2017–2020As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, cookedSpungen et al. 2024	all samples2018–2020As sold / fresh	not detected.
Winter squash, cookedAkçay et al. 2023	market samples, Konya Province, Turkey (2021 products)2021Basis not stated	mean.
1 finding · 1 study
Winter squash, flour or mealMuntean et al. 2024	all samples2023Basis not stated	mean.
1 finding · 1 study
Winter squash, oilMatei et al. 2025	all samples (market, Constanta)2024As sold / fresh	mean.

37 findings · 18 studies · 1 spread figure folded in
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	EURO2005As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	EURO2003–2019As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	EURO2003–2006As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	EURO2006–2018As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	PAHO2019As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	PAHO2003–2010As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	PAHO2011–2017As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	WPRO2010–2014As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	WPRO2005As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	WPRO2000–2008As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	WPRO2002As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldAntoine et al. 2017	Jamaican-grown, markets and farms island-wide, all samplesCollection date unreportedAs sold / fresh	mean.
Winter squash, as soldBanyen 2013	Hua Takhe fresh market, Bangkok2011As sold / fresh	mean.
Winter squash, as soldChowdhury et al. 2024	fruit vegetable, three local markets, Noakhali district2022As sold / fresh	mean.
Winter squash, as soldDearing et al. 2025	genus Cucurbita2024As sold / fresh	median.Same samples: 5 µg/kg (maximum)
Winter squash, as soldDearing et al. 2025	genus Cucurbita2024As sold / fresh	max.
Winter squash, as soldGuerra et al. 2012	CEAGESP wholesale market2009As sold / fresh	mean.
Winter squash, as soldGuerra et al. 2012	CEAGESP wholesale market2009As sold / fresh	mean.
Winter squash, as soldGuerra et al. 2012	CEAGESP wholesale market2009As sold / fresh	mean.
Winter squash, as soldHossen et al. 2026	farm 72024As sold / fresh	mean.
Winter squash, as soldHoulihan et al. 2019	Vegetable2019As sold / fresh	sample value.
Winter squash, as soldU.S. Food and Drug Administration 2024	Vegetables, FY20232009–2024As sold / fresh	sample value.
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	AFRO2012Dry weight	median.
Winter squash, as soldAltıkulaç et al. 2025	Group II2021–2022Dry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldDada et al. 2024	all samplesCollection date unreportedDry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldDada et al. 2024	evening purchaseCollection date unreportedDry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldDada et al. 2024	morning purchaseCollection date unreportedDry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldRani et al. 2025	fruit vegetable2017–2018Dry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldSharma et al. 2022	four market sites, Bareilly city (pooled)2018Dry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldSultana et al. 2021	all four phases, Kawran Bazar, DhakaCollection date unreportedDry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldSultana et al. 2021	sampling phase 1, Kawran Bazar, DhakaCollection date unreportedDry weight	not detected.
Winter squash, as soldSultana et al. 2021	sampling phase 2, Kawran Bazar, DhakaCollection date unreportedDry weight	sample value.
Winter squash, as soldSultana et al. 2021	sampling phase 3, Kawran Bazar, DhakaCollection date unreportedDry weight	sample value.
Winter squash, as soldSultana et al. 2021	sampling phase 4, Kawran Bazar, DhakaCollection date unreportedDry weight	not detected.
Winter squash, as soldAbbas et al. 2010	cucurbit vegetables2007–2008Basis not stated	mean.
Winter squash, as soldAkçay et al. 2023	market samples, Konya Province, Turkey (2021 products)2021Basis not stated	mean.
Winter squash, as soldauthors 2012	Pumpkin, farm samples from main producing regions across Korea2010–2011Basis not stated	mean.
Winter squash, as soldCentre for Food Safety (Hong Kong) 2013	all samples2010–2011Basis not stated	mean.
3 findings · 3 studies
Winter squash, cookedFDA Total Diet Study	6 collection regions2017–2020As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, cookedSpungen et al. 2024	all samples2018–2020As sold / fresh	mean.
Winter squash, cookedAkçay et al. 2023	market samples, Konya Province, Turkey (2021 products)2021Basis not stated	mean.
1 finding · 1 study
Winter squash, flour or mealMuntean et al. 2024	all samples2023Basis not stated	not detected.
1 finding · 1 study
Winter squash, oilMatei et al. 2025	all samples (market, Constanta)2024As sold / fresh	mean.

16 findings · 10 studies · 1 spread figure folded in
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	EURO2006–2023As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	EURO2005–2012As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	WPRO2004–2014As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	WPRO2009–2014As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	WPRO2002As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	WPRO2000–2008As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldAntoine et al. 2017	Jamaican-grown, markets and farms island-wide, all samplesCollection date unreportedAs sold / fresh	mean.
Winter squash, as soldHossen et al. 2026	farm 72024As sold / fresh	mean.
Winter squash, as soldHoulihan et al. 2019	Vegetable2019As sold / fresh	sample value.
Winter squash, as soldLaizu 2007	fruiting vegetables, local market, DhakaCollection date unreportedAs sold / fresh	mean.Same samples: 7,300 µg/kg (maximum)
Winter squash, as soldLaizu 2007	fruiting vegetables, local market, DhakaCollection date unreportedAs sold / fresh	min.
Winter squash, as soldLaizu 2007	fruiting vegetables, local market, DhakaCollection date unreportedAs sold / fresh	max.
Winter squash, as soldU.S. Food and Drug Administration 2024	Vegetables, FY20232009–2024As sold / fresh	sample value.
Winter squash, as soldAltıkulaç et al. 2025	Group II2021–2022Dry weight	not detected.
Winter squash, as soldSharma et al. 2022	four market sites, Bareilly city (pooled)2018Dry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldAbbas et al. 2010	cucurbit vegetables2007–2008Basis not stated	mean.
Winter squash, as soldauthors 2012	Pumpkin, farm samples from main producing regions across Korea2010–2011Basis not stated	mean.
1 finding · 1 study
Winter squash, cookedFDA Total Diet Study	6 collection regions2017–2020As sold / fresh	median.
1 finding · 1 study
Winter squash, flour or mealMuntean et al. 2024	all samples2023Basis not stated	not detected.

7 findings · 4 studies · 1 spread figure folded in
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	EURO2009–2011As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	WPRO2010–2011As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldLaizu 2007	fruiting vegetables, local market, DhakaCollection date unreportedAs sold / fresh	mean.Same samples: 2,200 µg/kg (maximum)
Winter squash, as soldLaizu 2007	fruiting vegetables, local market, DhakaCollection date unreportedAs sold / fresh	min.
Winter squash, as soldLaizu 2007	fruiting vegetables, local market, DhakaCollection date unreportedAs sold / fresh	max.
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	EURO2011Dry weight	median.
Winter squash, as soldCentre for Food Safety FEHD HKSAR 2012	all samples (4 sampling occasions, composites)2010–2011Basis not stated	not detected.
Winter squash, as soldEuropean Food Safety Authority (EFSA) 2014	European dietary-survey occurrence data2003–2013Basis not stated	mean.

2 findings · 1 study · 1 spread figure folded in
Winter squash, as soldLaizu 2007	fruiting vegetables, local market, DhakaCollection date unreportedAs sold / fresh	mean.Same samples: 2,300 µg/kg (maximum)
Winter squash, as soldLaizu 2007	fruiting vegetables, local market, DhakaCollection date unreportedAs sold / fresh	min.
Winter squash, as soldLaizu 2007	fruiting vegetables, local market, DhakaCollection date unreportedAs sold / fresh	max.

2 findings · 1 study · 1 spread figure folded in
Winter squash, as soldLaizu 2007	fruiting vegetables, local market, DhakaCollection date unreportedAs sold / fresh	mean.Same samples: 2,900 µg/kg (maximum)
Winter squash, as soldLaizu 2007	fruiting vegetables, local market, DhakaCollection date unreportedAs sold / fresh	min.
Winter squash, as soldLaizu 2007	fruiting vegetables, local market, DhakaCollection date unreportedAs sold / fresh	max.

11 findings · 5 studies
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	EURO2004–2017As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	EURO2002As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	EURO2015As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	WPRO2005As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	WPRO2014As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	WPRO2002As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	WPRO2000–2008As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldHoulihan et al. 2019	Vegetable2019As sold / fresh	not detected.
Winter squash, as soldU.S. Food and Drug Administration 2024	Vegetables, FY20232009–2024As sold / fresh	not detected.
Winter squash, as soldSharma et al. 2022	four market sites, Bareilly city (pooled)2018Dry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldAbbas et al. 2010	cucurbit vegetables2007–2008Basis not stated	mean.
1 finding · 1 study
Winter squash, cookedFDA Total Diet Study	6 collection regions2017–2020As sold / fresh	median.

17 findings · 9 studies · 1 spread figure folded in
Winter squash, as soldChowdhury et al. 2024	fruit vegetable, three local markets, Noakhali district2022As sold / fresh	mean.
Winter squash, as soldDearing et al. 2025	genus Cucurbita2024As sold / fresh	median.Same samples: 1,500 µg/kg (maximum)
Winter squash, as soldDearing et al. 2025	genus Cucurbita2024As sold / fresh	max.
Winter squash, as soldGuerra et al. 2012	CEAGESP wholesale market2009As sold / fresh	mean.
Winter squash, as soldGuerra et al. 2012	CEAGESP wholesale market2009As sold / fresh	mean.
Winter squash, as soldGuerra et al. 2012	CEAGESP wholesale market2009As sold / fresh	mean.
Winter squash, as soldAltıkulaç et al. 2025	Group II2021–2022Dry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldDada et al. 2024	all samplesCollection date unreportedDry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldDada et al. 2024	evening purchaseCollection date unreportedDry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldDada et al. 2024	morning purchaseCollection date unreportedDry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldRani et al. 2025	fruit vegetable2017–2018Dry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldSultana et al. 2021	all four phases, Kawran Bazar, DhakaCollection date unreportedDry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldSultana et al. 2021	sampling phase 1, Kawran Bazar, DhakaCollection date unreportedDry weight	not detected.
Winter squash, as soldSultana et al. 2021	sampling phase 2, Kawran Bazar, DhakaCollection date unreportedDry weight	sample value.
Winter squash, as soldSultana et al. 2021	sampling phase 3, Kawran Bazar, DhakaCollection date unreportedDry weight	not detected.
Winter squash, as soldSultana et al. 2021	sampling phase 4, Kawran Bazar, DhakaCollection date unreportedDry weight	sample value.
Winter squash, as soldAkçay et al. 2023	market samples, Konya Province, Turkey (2021 products)2021Basis not stated	mean.
Winter squash, as soldCentre for Food Safety (Hong Kong) 2013	all samples2010–2011Basis not stated	mean.
2 findings · 2 studies
Winter squash, cookedFDA Total Diet Study	6 collection regions2017–2020As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, cookedAkçay et al. 2023	market samples, Konya Province, Turkey (2021 products)2021Basis not stated	mean.
1 finding · 1 study
Winter squash, flour or mealMuntean et al. 2024	all samples2023Basis not stated	mean.
1 finding · 1 study
Winter squash, oilMatei et al. 2025	all samples (market, Constanta)2024As sold / fresh	mean.

15 findings · 8 studies
Winter squash, as soldChowdhury et al. 2024	fruit vegetable, three local markets, Noakhali district2022As sold / fresh	mean.
Winter squash, as soldEFSA Panel on Contaminants in the Food Chain (CONTAM) 2014	all samples, EFSA FoodEx subgroup, LB2000–2013As sold / fresh	mean.
Winter squash, as soldEFSA Panel on Contaminants in the Food Chain (CONTAM) 2014	all samples, EFSA FoodEx subgroup, UB2000–2013As sold / fresh	mean.
Winter squash, as soldGuerra et al. 2012	CEAGESP wholesale market2009As sold / fresh	mean.
Winter squash, as soldGuerra et al. 2012	CEAGESP wholesale market2009As sold / fresh	mean.
Winter squash, as soldGuerra et al. 2012	CEAGESP wholesale market2009As sold / fresh	mean.
Winter squash, as soldHossen et al. 2026	farm 72024As sold / fresh	mean.
Winter squash, as soldAltıkulaç et al. 2025	Group II2021–2022Dry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldRani et al. 2025	fruit vegetable2017–2018Dry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldSultana et al. 2021	all four phases, Kawran Bazar, DhakaCollection date unreportedDry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldSultana et al. 2021	sampling phase 1, Kawran Bazar, DhakaCollection date unreportedDry weight	sample value.
Winter squash, as soldSultana et al. 2021	sampling phase 2, Kawran Bazar, DhakaCollection date unreportedDry weight	sample value.
Winter squash, as soldSultana et al. 2021	sampling phase 3, Kawran Bazar, DhakaCollection date unreportedDry weight	sample value.
Winter squash, as soldSultana et al. 2021	sampling phase 4, Kawran Bazar, DhakaCollection date unreportedDry weight	sample value.
Winter squash, as soldAkçay et al. 2023	market samples, Konya Province, Turkey (2021 products)2021Basis not stated	mean.
2 findings · 2 studies
Winter squash, cookedFDA Total Diet Study	6 collection regions2017–2020As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, cookedAkçay et al. 2023	market samples, Konya Province, Turkey (2021 products)2021Basis not stated	mean.
1 finding · 1 study
Winter squash, oilMatei et al. 2025	all samples (market, Constanta)2024As sold / fresh	mean.

5 findings · 5 studies
Winter squash, as soldAntoine et al. 2017	Jamaican-grown, markets and farms island-wide, all samplesCollection date unreportedAs sold / fresh	mean.
Winter squash, as soldAltıkulaç et al. 2025	Group II2021–2022Dry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldRani et al. 2025	fruit vegetable2017–2018Dry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldSharma et al. 2022	four market sites, Bareilly city (pooled)2018Dry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldCentre for Food Safety (Hong Kong) 2013	all samples2010–2011Basis not stated	mean.
1 finding · 1 study
Winter squash, flour or mealMuntean et al. 2024	all samples2023Basis not stated	mean.

4 findings · 2 studies
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	WPRO2005As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	WPRO2010–2011As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldWHO GEMS/Food	WPRO2002As sold / fresh	median.
Winter squash, as soldCentre for Food Safety (Hong Kong) 2013	all samples2010–2011Basis not stated	mean.

1 finding · 1 study
Winter squash, as soldCentre for Food Safety (Hong Kong) 2013	all samples2010–2011Basis not stated	mean.

1 finding · 1 study
Winter squash, cookedFDA Total Diet Study	6 collection regions2017–2020As sold / fresh	median.

6 findings · 4 studies
Winter squash, as soldGuerra et al. 2012	CEAGESP wholesale market2009As sold / fresh	mean.
Winter squash, as soldGuerra et al. 2012	CEAGESP wholesale market2009As sold / fresh	mean.
Winter squash, as soldGuerra et al. 2012	CEAGESP wholesale market2009As sold / fresh	mean.
Winter squash, as soldAltıkulaç et al. 2025	Group II2021–2022Dry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldRani et al. 2025	fruit vegetable2017–2018Dry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldAkçay et al. 2023	market samples, Konya Province, Turkey (2021 products)2021Basis not stated	mean.
1 finding · 1 study
Winter squash, cookedAkçay et al. 2023	market samples, Konya Province, Turkey (2021 products)2021Basis not stated	mean.
1 finding · 1 study
Winter squash, oilMatei et al. 2025	all samples (market, Constanta)2024As sold / fresh	mean.

12 findings · 6 studies
Winter squash, as soldBanyen 2013	Hua Takhe fresh market, Bangkok2011As sold / fresh	mean.
Winter squash, as soldHossen et al. 2026	farm 72024As sold / fresh	mean.
Winter squash, as soldAltıkulaç et al. 2025	Group II2021–2022Dry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldDada et al. 2024	all samplesCollection date unreportedDry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldDada et al. 2024	evening purchaseCollection date unreportedDry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldDada et al. 2024	morning purchaseCollection date unreportedDry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldRani et al. 2025	fruit vegetable2017–2018Dry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldSultana et al. 2021	all four phases, Kawran Bazar, DhakaCollection date unreportedDry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldSultana et al. 2021	sampling phase 1, Kawran Bazar, DhakaCollection date unreportedDry weight	sample value.
Winter squash, as soldSultana et al. 2021	sampling phase 2, Kawran Bazar, DhakaCollection date unreportedDry weight	sample value.
Winter squash, as soldSultana et al. 2021	sampling phase 3, Kawran Bazar, DhakaCollection date unreportedDry weight	sample value.
Winter squash, as soldSultana et al. 2021	sampling phase 4, Kawran Bazar, DhakaCollection date unreportedDry weight	sample value.
1 finding · 1 study
Winter squash, flour or mealMuntean et al. 2024	all samples2023Basis not stated	mean.
1 finding · 1 study
Winter squash, oilMatei et al. 2025	all samples (market, Constanta)2024As sold / fresh	mean.

9 findings · 5 studies
Winter squash, as soldChowdhury et al. 2024	fruit vegetable, three local markets, Noakhali district2022As sold / fresh	mean.
Winter squash, as soldHossen et al. 2026	farm 72024As sold / fresh	mean.
Winter squash, as soldAltıkulaç et al. 2025	Group II2021–2022Dry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldRani et al. 2025	fruit vegetable2017–2018Dry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldSultana et al. 2021	all four phases, Kawran Bazar, DhakaCollection date unreportedDry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldSultana et al. 2021	sampling phase 1, Kawran Bazar, DhakaCollection date unreportedDry weight	sample value.
Winter squash, as soldSultana et al. 2021	sampling phase 2, Kawran Bazar, DhakaCollection date unreportedDry weight	sample value.
Winter squash, as soldSultana et al. 2021	sampling phase 3, Kawran Bazar, DhakaCollection date unreportedDry weight	sample value.
Winter squash, as soldSultana et al. 2021	sampling phase 4, Kawran Bazar, DhakaCollection date unreportedDry weight	sample value.
1 finding · 1 study
Winter squash, flour or mealMuntean et al. 2024	all samples2023Basis not stated	mean.

7 findings · 3 studies
Winter squash, as soldAltıkulaç et al. 2025	Group II2021–2022Dry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldRani et al. 2025	fruit vegetable2017–2018Dry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldSultana et al. 2021	all four phases, Kawran Bazar, DhakaCollection date unreportedDry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldSultana et al. 2021	sampling phase 1, Kawran Bazar, DhakaCollection date unreportedDry weight	sample value.
Winter squash, as soldSultana et al. 2021	sampling phase 2, Kawran Bazar, DhakaCollection date unreportedDry weight	sample value.
Winter squash, as soldSultana et al. 2021	sampling phase 3, Kawran Bazar, DhakaCollection date unreportedDry weight	sample value.
Winter squash, as soldSultana et al. 2021	sampling phase 4, Kawran Bazar, DhakaCollection date unreportedDry weight	sample value.
1 finding · 1 study
Winter squash, flour or mealMuntean et al. 2024	all samples2023Basis not stated	mean.
1 finding · 1 study
Winter squash, oilMatei et al. 2025	all samples (market, Constanta)2024As sold / fresh	mean.

11 findings · 5 studies
Winter squash, as soldBanyen 2013	Hua Takhe fresh market, Bangkok2011As sold / fresh	mean.
Winter squash, as soldAltıkulaç et al. 2025	Group II2021–2022Dry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldDada et al. 2024	all samplesCollection date unreportedDry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldDada et al. 2024	evening purchaseCollection date unreportedDry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldDada et al. 2024	morning purchaseCollection date unreportedDry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldRani et al. 2025	fruit vegetable2017–2018Dry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldSultana et al. 2021	all four phases, Kawran Bazar, DhakaCollection date unreportedDry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldSultana et al. 2021	sampling phase 1, Kawran Bazar, DhakaCollection date unreportedDry weight	sample value.
Winter squash, as soldSultana et al. 2021	sampling phase 2, Kawran Bazar, DhakaCollection date unreportedDry weight	sample value.
Winter squash, as soldSultana et al. 2021	sampling phase 3, Kawran Bazar, DhakaCollection date unreportedDry weight	sample value.
Winter squash, as soldSultana et al. 2021	sampling phase 4, Kawran Bazar, DhakaCollection date unreportedDry weight	sample value.
1 finding · 1 study
Winter squash, flour or mealMuntean et al. 2024	all samples2023Basis not stated	mean.

2 findings · 2 studies
Winter squash, as soldAltıkulaç et al. 2025	Group II2021–2022Dry weight	mean.
Winter squash, as soldCentre for Food Safety (Hong Kong) 2013	all samples2010–2011Basis not stated	not detected.

1 finding · 1 study
Winter squash, as soldAkçay et al. 2023	market samples, Konya Province, Turkey (2021 products)2021Basis not stated	mean.
1 finding · 1 study
Winter squash, cookedAkçay et al. 2023	market samples, Konya Province, Turkey (2021 products)2021Basis not stated	mean.
1 finding · 1 study
Winter squash, flour or mealMuntean et al. 2024	all samples2023Basis not stated	not detected.

1 finding · 1 study
Winter squash, flour or mealMuntean et al. 2024	all samples2023Basis not stated	mean.

1 finding · 1 study
Winter squash, as soldAkçay et al. 2023	market samples, Konya Province, Turkey (2021 products)2021Basis not stated	mean.
1 finding · 1 study
Winter squash, cookedAkçay et al. 2023	market samples, Konya Province, Turkey (2021 products)2021Basis not stated	mean.

1 finding · 1 study
Winter squash, as soldAltıkulaç et al. 2025	Group II2021–2022Dry weight	mean.

1 finding · 1 study
Winter squash, as soldAltıkulaç et al. 2025	Group II2021–2022Dry weight	mean.

Shared dataset methods and interpretation

Source summaries retain their original statistic, material, basis and censoring. Each source drawer identifies methods and overlapping samples. No matched reference or pooled distribution is inferred.

HMI winter squash Pb reference · Winter squash, as sold

Reference and scope

HMI winter squash Pb reference · Winter squash, as sold. Winter squash, as sold; As sold, as eaten or fresh weight, µg/kg; no moisture conversion. Distribution of subgroup median concentration values.

Reference (µg/kg)	Q1	Median	Q3
Primary HMI reference	1	1–4 (bounded)	4–4.55 (bounded)
Alternative weighting	1	1–4 (bounded)	4–5 (bounded)

58 reference units; 3 sampling families. Counts describe evidence units, not independent studies or certainty.

Contributing family	Reference units	Weight
WHO GEMS/Food	56	33%
Houlihan et al. 2019	1	33%
U.S. Food and Drug Administration 2024	1	33%

Methods

HMI pools subgroup medians for winter squash, as sold on a as sold, as eaten or fresh weight basis: monitoring results summarized as one median per reporting region, sampling type and collection year, total diet composites and printed sample values as single observations, and printed subgroup medians from ordinary farms or markets. Each sampling family has equal total weight. Non-detects stay as zero-to-limit intervals, so quartiles carry lower and upper bounds. Means, ranges and maxima never enter as observations. Other forms, other bases, targeted sampling and results from mining, industrial, wastewater-affected, experimental, fertiliser or manufacturer settings are kept out of this reference.

Inverse weighted empirical CDF; midpoint at exact cumulative-weight boundaries. At least four reference units and a definitely positive Q1 to Q3 spread are required. This is a display eligibility rule, not statistical validation.

Limitations

3 sampling families with different designs; none is a probability sample of world supply. Reporting regions and purchase markets are not growing areas. Non-detects with differing limits widen the bounds. A position is descriptive concentration, not a safety or compliance judgment.

Admitted source families

Reference version and interpretation

Frozen evidence selection: 2026-10-22. Method: hmi-pooled-reference-v2.

hmi-pooled-reference-v2:winter-squash-84fae74f87d2:3059c8b06d36

The reference is computed by HMI from admitted evidence, not copied from a study baseline. It describes the evidence currently in this scope; it is not a worldwide or current-lot benchmark. Source, year and region filters do not change it. Different HMI scopes are not one common ranking.

HMI winter squash Pb reference · Winter squash, as sold, dry weight

Reference and scope

HMI winter squash Pb reference · Winter squash, as sold, dry weight. Winter squash, as sold; Dry weight, µg/kg; no moisture conversion. Distribution of subgroup median concentration values.

Reference (µg/kg)	Q1	Median	Q3
Primary HMI reference	70	535	3000
Alternative weighting	70	535	3000

4 reference units; 2 sampling families. Counts describe evidence units, not independent studies or certainty.

Contributing family	Reference units	Weight
WHO GEMS/Food	1	50%
Sultana et al. 2021	3	50%

Methods

HMI pools subgroup medians for winter squash, as sold on a dry weight basis: monitoring results summarized as one median per reporting region, sampling type and collection year, total diet composites and printed sample values as single observations, and printed subgroup medians from ordinary farms or markets. Each sampling family has equal total weight. Non-detects stay as zero-to-limit intervals, so quartiles carry lower and upper bounds. Means, ranges and maxima never enter as observations. Other forms, other bases, targeted sampling and results from mining, industrial, wastewater-affected, experimental, fertiliser or manufacturer settings are kept out of this reference.

Inverse weighted empirical CDF; midpoint at exact cumulative-weight boundaries. At least four reference units and a definitely positive Q1 to Q3 spread are required. This is a display eligibility rule, not statistical validation.

Limitations

2 sampling families with different designs; none is a probability sample of world supply. Reporting regions and purchase markets are not growing areas. Non-detects with differing limits widen the bounds. A position is descriptive concentration, not a safety or compliance judgment.

Admitted source families

Reference version and interpretation

Frozen evidence selection: 2026-10-22. Method: hmi-pooled-reference-v2.

hmi-pooled-reference-v2:winter-squash-a1ffe95ae5f0:170888b18acd

The reference is computed by HMI from admitted evidence, not copied from a study baseline. It describes the evidence currently in this scope; it is not a worldwide or current-lot benchmark. Source, year and region filters do not change it. Different HMI scopes are not one common ranking.

HMI winter squash Pb reference · Winter squash, cooked

Reference and scope

HMI winter squash Pb reference · Winter squash, cooked. Winter squash, cooked; As sold, as eaten or fresh weight, µg/kg; no moisture conversion. Distribution of subgroup median concentration values.

Reference (µg/kg)	Q1	Median	Q3
Primary HMI reference	≤4	≤4	≤4
Alternative weighting	≤4	≤4	≤4

28 reference units; 2 sampling families. Counts describe evidence units, not independent studies or certainty.

Contributing family	Reference units	Weight
FDA Total Diet Study	27	50%
Spungen et al. 2024	1	50%

Methods

HMI pools subgroup medians for winter squash, cooked on a as sold, as eaten or fresh weight basis: monitoring results summarized as one median per reporting region, sampling type and collection year, total diet composites and printed sample values as single observations, and printed subgroup medians from ordinary farms or markets. Each sampling family has equal total weight. Non-detects stay as zero-to-limit intervals, so quartiles carry lower and upper bounds. Means, ranges and maxima never enter as observations. Other forms, other bases, targeted sampling and results from mining, industrial, wastewater-affected, experimental, fertiliser or manufacturer settings are kept out of this reference.

Inverse weighted empirical CDF; midpoint at exact cumulative-weight boundaries. At least four reference units and a definitely positive Q1 to Q3 spread are required. This is a display eligibility rule, not statistical validation.

Limitations

2 sampling families with different designs; none is a probability sample of world supply. Reporting regions and purchase markets are not growing areas. Non-detects with differing limits widen the bounds. A position is descriptive concentration, not a safety or compliance judgment.

Admitted source families

Reference version and interpretation

Frozen evidence selection: 2026-10-22. Method: hmi-pooled-reference-v2.

hmi-pooled-reference-v2:winter-squash-dd924fe41275:948e2beb978f

The reference is computed by HMI from admitted evidence, not copied from a study baseline. It describes the evidence currently in this scope; it is not a worldwide or current-lot benchmark. Source, year and region filters do not change it. Different HMI scopes are not one common ranking.

HMI winter squash Cd reference · Winter squash, as sold

Reference and scope

HMI winter squash Cd reference · Winter squash, as sold. Winter squash, as sold; As sold, as eaten or fresh weight, µg/kg; no moisture conversion. Distribution of subgroup median concentration values.

Reference (µg/kg)	Q1	Median	Q3
Primary HMI reference	1.1	3	3.8
Alternative weighting	1.1	3	3.8

46 reference units; 4 sampling families. Counts describe evidence units, not independent studies or certainty.

Contributing family	Reference units	Weight
WHO GEMS/Food	43	25%
Dearing et al. 2025	1	25%
Houlihan et al. 2019	1	25%
U.S. Food and Drug Administration 2024	1	25%

Methods

HMI pools subgroup medians for winter squash, as sold on a as sold, as eaten or fresh weight basis: monitoring results summarized as one median per reporting region, sampling type and collection year, total diet composites and printed sample values as single observations, and printed subgroup medians from ordinary farms or markets. Each sampling family has equal total weight. Non-detects stay as zero-to-limit intervals, so quartiles carry lower and upper bounds. Means, ranges and maxima never enter as observations. Other forms, other bases, targeted sampling and results from mining, industrial, wastewater-affected, experimental, fertiliser or manufacturer settings are kept out of this reference.

Inverse weighted empirical CDF; midpoint at exact cumulative-weight boundaries. At least four reference units and a definitely positive Q1 to Q3 spread are required. This is a display eligibility rule, not statistical validation.

Limitations

4 sampling families with different designs; none is a probability sample of world supply. Reporting regions and purchase markets are not growing areas. Non-detects with differing limits widen the bounds. A position is descriptive concentration, not a safety or compliance judgment.

Admitted source families

Reference version and interpretation

Frozen evidence selection: 2026-10-22. Method: hmi-pooled-reference-v2.

hmi-pooled-reference-v2:winter-squash-9f0510198fad:26f4c0710161

The reference is computed by HMI from admitted evidence, not copied from a study baseline. It describes the evidence currently in this scope; it is not a worldwide or current-lot benchmark. Source, year and region filters do not change it. Different HMI scopes are not one common ranking.

HMI winter squash Cd reference · Winter squash, as sold, dry weight

Reference and scope

HMI winter squash Cd reference · Winter squash, as sold, dry weight. Winter squash, as sold; Dry weight, µg/kg; no moisture conversion. Distribution of subgroup median concentration values.

Reference (µg/kg)	Q1	Median	Q3
Primary HMI reference	150	275	350
Alternative weighting	150	275	350

3 reference units; 2 sampling families. Counts describe evidence units, not independent studies or certainty.

Contributing family	Reference units	Weight
WHO GEMS/Food	1	50%
Sultana et al. 2021	2	50%

Methods

HMI pools subgroup medians for winter squash, as sold on a dry weight basis: monitoring results summarized as one median per reporting region, sampling type and collection year, total diet composites and printed sample values as single observations, and printed subgroup medians from ordinary farms or markets. Each sampling family has equal total weight. Non-detects stay as zero-to-limit intervals, so quartiles carry lower and upper bounds. Means, ranges and maxima never enter as observations. Other forms, other bases, targeted sampling and results from mining, industrial, wastewater-affected, experimental, fertiliser or manufacturer settings are kept out of this reference.

Inverse weighted empirical CDF; midpoint at exact cumulative-weight boundaries. At least four reference units and a definitely positive Q1 to Q3 spread are required. This is a display eligibility rule, not statistical validation.

Limitations

2 sampling families with different designs; none is a probability sample of world supply. Reporting regions and purchase markets are not growing areas. Non-detects with differing limits widen the bounds. A position is descriptive concentration, not a safety or compliance judgment.

Admitted source families

Reference version and interpretation

Frozen evidence selection: 2026-10-22. Method: hmi-pooled-reference-v2.

hmi-pooled-reference-v2:winter-squash-2fc228e2549b:c0dfbcd02770

The reference is computed by HMI from admitted evidence, not copied from a study baseline. It describes the evidence currently in this scope; it is not a worldwide or current-lot benchmark. Source, year and region filters do not change it. Different HMI scopes are not one common ranking.

HMI winter squash Cd reference · Winter squash, cooked

Reference and scope

HMI winter squash Cd reference · Winter squash, cooked. Winter squash, cooked; As sold, as eaten or fresh weight, µg/kg; no moisture conversion. Distribution of subgroup median concentration values.

Reference (µg/kg)	Q1	Median	Q3
Primary HMI reference	1.4	1.6	3.3
Alternative weighting	1.4	1.65	3.3

27 reference units; 1 sampling family. Counts describe evidence units, not independent studies or certainty.

Contributing family	Reference units	Weight
FDA Total Diet Study	27	100%

Methods

HMI pools subgroup medians for winter squash, cooked on a as sold, as eaten or fresh weight basis: monitoring results summarized as one median per reporting region, sampling type and collection year, total diet composites and printed sample values as single observations, and printed subgroup medians from ordinary farms or markets. Each sampling family has equal total weight. Non-detects stay as zero-to-limit intervals, so quartiles carry lower and upper bounds. Means, ranges and maxima never enter as observations. Other forms, other bases, targeted sampling and results from mining, industrial, wastewater-affected, experimental, fertiliser or manufacturer settings are kept out of this reference.

Inverse weighted empirical CDF; midpoint at exact cumulative-weight boundaries. At least four reference units and a definitely positive Q1 to Q3 spread are required. This is a display eligibility rule, not statistical validation.

Limitations

FDA Total Diet Study is the only compatible sampling family for winter squash, cooked on this basis in the completed winter squash ledger, so this single-family reference cannot represent other markets. Reporting regions and purchase markets are not growing areas. Non-detects with differing limits widen the bounds. A position is descriptive concentration, not a safety or compliance judgment.

Admitted source families

FDA Total Diet Study

Reference version and interpretation

Frozen evidence selection: 2026-10-22. Method: hmi-pooled-reference-v2.

hmi-pooled-reference-v2:winter-squash-edf7689c6575:fbde57eafd54

The reference is computed by HMI from admitted evidence, not copied from a study baseline. It describes the evidence currently in this scope; it is not a worldwide or current-lot benchmark. Source, year and region filters do not change it. Different HMI scopes are not one common ranking.

HMI winter squash tAs reference · Winter squash, as sold

Reference and scope

HMI winter squash tAs reference · Winter squash, as sold. Winter squash, as sold; As sold, as eaten or fresh weight, µg/kg; no moisture conversion. Distribution of subgroup median concentration values.

Reference (µg/kg)	Q1	Median	Q3
Primary HMI reference	2–2.1 (bounded)	2.1–2.6 (bounded)	2.6–3.5 (bounded)
Alternative weighting	2–2.1 (bounded)	2.1–2.6 (bounded)	2.6–3.5 (bounded)

20 reference units; 3 sampling families. Counts describe evidence units, not independent studies or certainty.

Contributing family	Reference units	Weight
WHO GEMS/Food	18	33%
Houlihan et al. 2019	1	33%
U.S. Food and Drug Administration 2024	1	33%

Methods

HMI pools subgroup medians for winter squash, as sold on a as sold, as eaten or fresh weight basis: monitoring results summarized as one median per reporting region, sampling type and collection year, total diet composites and printed sample values as single observations, and printed subgroup medians from ordinary farms or markets. Each sampling family has equal total weight. Non-detects stay as zero-to-limit intervals, so quartiles carry lower and upper bounds. Means, ranges and maxima never enter as observations. Other forms, other bases, targeted sampling and results from mining, industrial, wastewater-affected, experimental, fertiliser or manufacturer settings are kept out of this reference.

Inverse weighted empirical CDF; midpoint at exact cumulative-weight boundaries. At least four reference units and a definitely positive Q1 to Q3 spread are required. This is a display eligibility rule, not statistical validation.

Limitations

3 sampling families with different designs; none is a probability sample of world supply. Reporting regions and purchase markets are not growing areas. Non-detects with differing limits widen the bounds. A position is descriptive concentration, not a safety or compliance judgment.

Admitted source families

Reference version and interpretation

Frozen evidence selection: 2026-10-22. Method: hmi-pooled-reference-v2.

hmi-pooled-reference-v2:winter-squash-e32b72c3d8fe:fee1156ddc58

The reference is computed by HMI from admitted evidence, not copied from a study baseline. It describes the evidence currently in this scope; it is not a worldwide or current-lot benchmark. Source, year and region filters do not change it. Different HMI scopes are not one common ranking.

HMI winter squash tAs reference · Winter squash, as sold, dry weight

Reference and scope

HMI winter squash tAs reference · Winter squash, as sold, dry weight. Winter squash, as sold; Dry weight, µg/kg; no moisture conversion. Distribution of subgroup median concentration values.

Reference (µg/kg)	Q1	Median	Q3
Primary HMI reference	≤2.79	≤2.79	≤2.79
Alternative weighting	≤2.79	≤2.79	≤2.79

1 reference units; 1 sampling family. Counts describe evidence units, not independent studies or certainty.

Contributing family	Reference units	Weight
Altıkulaç et al. 2025	1	100%

Methods

HMI pools subgroup medians for winter squash, as sold on a dry weight basis: monitoring results summarized as one median per reporting region, sampling type and collection year, total diet composites and printed sample values as single observations, and printed subgroup medians from ordinary farms or markets. Each sampling family has equal total weight. Non-detects stay as zero-to-limit intervals, so quartiles carry lower and upper bounds. Means, ranges and maxima never enter as observations. Other forms, other bases, targeted sampling and results from mining, industrial, wastewater-affected, experimental, fertiliser or manufacturer settings are kept out of this reference.

Inverse weighted empirical CDF; midpoint at exact cumulative-weight boundaries. At least four reference units and a definitely positive Q1 to Q3 spread are required. This is a display eligibility rule, not statistical validation.

Limitations

Altıkulaç et al. 2025 is the only compatible sampling family for winter squash, as sold on this basis in the completed winter squash ledger, so this single-family reference cannot represent other markets. Reporting regions and purchase markets are not growing areas. Non-detects with differing limits widen the bounds. A position is descriptive concentration, not a safety or compliance judgment.

Admitted source families

Altıkulaç et al. 2025

Reference version and interpretation

Frozen evidence selection: 2026-10-22. Method: hmi-pooled-reference-v2.

hmi-pooled-reference-v2:winter-squash-48359346df78:6c257483e6a3

The reference is computed by HMI from admitted evidence, not copied from a study baseline. It describes the evidence currently in this scope; it is not a worldwide or current-lot benchmark. Source, year and region filters do not change it. Different HMI scopes are not one common ranking.

HMI winter squash tAs reference · Winter squash, cooked

Reference and scope

HMI winter squash tAs reference · Winter squash, cooked. Winter squash, cooked; As sold, as eaten or fresh weight, µg/kg; no moisture conversion. Distribution of subgroup median concentration values.

Reference (µg/kg)	Q1	Median	Q3
Primary HMI reference	≤3	≤3	3.7
Alternative weighting	≤3	≤3	3.7

27 reference units; 1 sampling family. Counts describe evidence units, not independent studies or certainty.

Contributing family	Reference units	Weight
FDA Total Diet Study	27	100%

Methods

HMI pools subgroup medians for winter squash, cooked on a as sold, as eaten or fresh weight basis: monitoring results summarized as one median per reporting region, sampling type and collection year, total diet composites and printed sample values as single observations, and printed subgroup medians from ordinary farms or markets. Each sampling family has equal total weight. Non-detects stay as zero-to-limit intervals, so quartiles carry lower and upper bounds. Means, ranges and maxima never enter as observations. Other forms, other bases, targeted sampling and results from mining, industrial, wastewater-affected, experimental, fertiliser or manufacturer settings are kept out of this reference.

Inverse weighted empirical CDF; midpoint at exact cumulative-weight boundaries. At least four reference units and a definitely positive Q1 to Q3 spread are required. This is a display eligibility rule, not statistical validation.

Limitations

FDA Total Diet Study is the only compatible sampling family for winter squash, cooked on this basis in the completed winter squash ledger, so this single-family reference cannot represent other markets. Reporting regions and purchase markets are not growing areas. Non-detects with differing limits widen the bounds. A position is descriptive concentration, not a safety or compliance judgment.

Admitted source families

FDA Total Diet Study

Reference version and interpretation

Frozen evidence selection: 2026-10-22. Method: hmi-pooled-reference-v2.

hmi-pooled-reference-v2:winter-squash-43d69f7823bb:bfe9ae3d197f

The reference is computed by HMI from admitted evidence, not copied from a study baseline. It describes the evidence currently in this scope; it is not a worldwide or current-lot benchmark. Source, year and region filters do not change it. Different HMI scopes are not one common ranking.

HMI winter squash iAs reference · Winter squash, as sold

Reference and scope

HMI winter squash iAs reference · Winter squash, as sold. Winter squash, as sold; As sold, as eaten or fresh weight, µg/kg; no moisture conversion. Distribution of subgroup median concentration values.

Reference (µg/kg)	Q1	Median	Q3
Primary HMI reference	≤3	2.08–3.58 (bounded)	42.7
Alternative weighting	≤3	2.08–3.58 (bounded)	42.7

4 reference units; 1 sampling family. Counts describe evidence units, not independent studies or certainty.

Contributing family	Reference units	Weight
WHO GEMS/Food	4	100%

Methods

HMI pools subgroup medians for winter squash, as sold on a as sold, as eaten or fresh weight basis: monitoring results summarized as one median per reporting region, sampling type and collection year, total diet composites and printed sample values as single observations, and printed subgroup medians from ordinary farms or markets. Each sampling family has equal total weight. Non-detects stay as zero-to-limit intervals, so quartiles carry lower and upper bounds. Means, ranges and maxima never enter as observations. Other forms, other bases, targeted sampling and results from mining, industrial, wastewater-affected, experimental, fertiliser or manufacturer settings are kept out of this reference.

Inverse weighted empirical CDF; midpoint at exact cumulative-weight boundaries. At least four reference units and a definitely positive Q1 to Q3 spread are required. This is a display eligibility rule, not statistical validation.

Limitations

WHO GEMS/Food is the only compatible sampling family for winter squash, as sold on this basis in the completed winter squash ledger, so this single-family reference cannot represent other markets. Reporting regions and purchase markets are not growing areas. Non-detects with differing limits widen the bounds. A position is descriptive concentration, not a safety or compliance judgment.

Admitted source families

WHO GEMS/Food

Reference version and interpretation

Frozen evidence selection: 2026-10-22. Method: hmi-pooled-reference-v2.

hmi-pooled-reference-v2:winter-squash-1dff5060d976:e00f36b5911b

The reference is computed by HMI from admitted evidence, not copied from a study baseline. It describes the evidence currently in this scope; it is not a worldwide or current-lot benchmark. Source, year and region filters do not change it. Different HMI scopes are not one common ranking.

HMI winter squash iAs reference · Winter squash, as sold, dry weight

Reference and scope

HMI winter squash iAs reference · Winter squash, as sold, dry weight. Winter squash, as sold; Dry weight, µg/kg; no moisture conversion. Distribution of subgroup median concentration values.

Reference (µg/kg)	Q1	Median	Q3
Primary HMI reference	81.3	81.3	81.3
Alternative weighting	81.3	81.3	81.3

1 reference units; 1 sampling family. Counts describe evidence units, not independent studies or certainty.

Contributing family	Reference units	Weight
WHO GEMS/Food	1	100%

Methods

HMI pools subgroup medians for winter squash, as sold on a dry weight basis: monitoring results summarized as one median per reporting region, sampling type and collection year, total diet composites and printed sample values as single observations, and printed subgroup medians from ordinary farms or markets. Each sampling family has equal total weight. Non-detects stay as zero-to-limit intervals, so quartiles carry lower and upper bounds. Means, ranges and maxima never enter as observations. Other forms, other bases, targeted sampling and results from mining, industrial, wastewater-affected, experimental, fertiliser or manufacturer settings are kept out of this reference.

Inverse weighted empirical CDF; midpoint at exact cumulative-weight boundaries. At least four reference units and a definitely positive Q1 to Q3 spread are required. This is a display eligibility rule, not statistical validation.

Limitations

WHO GEMS/Food is the only compatible sampling family for winter squash, as sold on this basis in the completed winter squash ledger, so this single-family reference cannot represent other markets. Reporting regions and purchase markets are not growing areas. Non-detects with differing limits widen the bounds. A position is descriptive concentration, not a safety or compliance judgment.

Admitted source families

WHO GEMS/Food

Reference version and interpretation

Frozen evidence selection: 2026-10-22. Method: hmi-pooled-reference-v2.

hmi-pooled-reference-v2:winter-squash-046350d1c875:12cd820a47c9

The reference is computed by HMI from admitted evidence, not copied from a study baseline. It describes the evidence currently in this scope; it is not a worldwide or current-lot benchmark. Source, year and region filters do not change it. Different HMI scopes are not one common ranking.

HMI winter squash tHg reference · Winter squash, as sold

Reference and scope

HMI winter squash tHg reference · Winter squash, as sold. Winter squash, as sold; As sold, as eaten or fresh weight, µg/kg; no moisture conversion. Distribution of subgroup median concentration values.

Reference (µg/kg)	Q1	Median	Q3
Primary HMI reference	≤0.139	≤0.139	≤3.65
Alternative weighting	≤0.139	≤0.139	≤3.65

13 reference units; 2 sampling families. Counts describe evidence units, not independent studies or certainty.

Contributing family	Reference units	Weight
WHO GEMS/Food	12	50%
Houlihan et al. 2019	1	50%

Methods

HMI pools subgroup medians for winter squash, as sold on a as sold, as eaten or fresh weight basis: monitoring results summarized as one median per reporting region, sampling type and collection year, total diet composites and printed sample values as single observations, and printed subgroup medians from ordinary farms or markets. Each sampling family has equal total weight. Non-detects stay as zero-to-limit intervals, so quartiles carry lower and upper bounds. Means, ranges and maxima never enter as observations. Other forms, other bases, targeted sampling and results from mining, industrial, wastewater-affected, experimental, fertiliser or manufacturer settings are kept out of this reference.

Inverse weighted empirical CDF; midpoint at exact cumulative-weight boundaries. At least four reference units and a definitely positive Q1 to Q3 spread are required. This is a display eligibility rule, not statistical validation.

Limitations

2 sampling families with different designs; none is a probability sample of world supply. Reporting regions and purchase markets are not growing areas. Non-detects with differing limits widen the bounds. A position is descriptive concentration, not a safety or compliance judgment.

Admitted source families

Reference version and interpretation

Frozen evidence selection: 2026-10-22. Method: hmi-pooled-reference-v2.

hmi-pooled-reference-v2:winter-squash-e1a19169864c:dee026f680d3

The reference is computed by HMI from admitted evidence, not copied from a study baseline. It describes the evidence currently in this scope; it is not a worldwide or current-lot benchmark. Source, year and region filters do not change it. Different HMI scopes are not one common ranking.

HMI winter squash tHg reference · Winter squash, cooked

Reference and scope

HMI winter squash tHg reference · Winter squash, cooked. Winter squash, cooked; As sold, as eaten or fresh weight, µg/kg; no moisture conversion. Distribution of subgroup median concentration values.

Reference (µg/kg)	Q1	Median	Q3
Primary HMI reference	≤1	≤1	≤1
Alternative weighting	≤1	≤1	≤1

27 reference units; 1 sampling family. Counts describe evidence units, not independent studies or certainty.

Contributing family	Reference units	Weight
FDA Total Diet Study	27	100%

Methods

HMI pools subgroup medians for winter squash, cooked on a as sold, as eaten or fresh weight basis: monitoring results summarized as one median per reporting region, sampling type and collection year, total diet composites and printed sample values as single observations, and printed subgroup medians from ordinary farms or markets. Each sampling family has equal total weight. Non-detects stay as zero-to-limit intervals, so quartiles carry lower and upper bounds. Means, ranges and maxima never enter as observations. Other forms, other bases, targeted sampling and results from mining, industrial, wastewater-affected, experimental, fertiliser or manufacturer settings are kept out of this reference.

Inverse weighted empirical CDF; midpoint at exact cumulative-weight boundaries. At least four reference units and a definitely positive Q1 to Q3 spread are required. This is a display eligibility rule, not statistical validation.

Limitations

FDA Total Diet Study is the only compatible sampling family for winter squash, cooked on this basis in the completed winter squash ledger, so this single-family reference cannot represent other markets. Reporting regions and purchase markets are not growing areas. Non-detects with differing limits widen the bounds. A position is descriptive concentration, not a safety or compliance judgment.

Admitted source families

FDA Total Diet Study

Reference version and interpretation

Frozen evidence selection: 2026-10-22. Method: hmi-pooled-reference-v2.

hmi-pooled-reference-v2:winter-squash-da5385fd28f0:cebdf2d591a7

The reference is computed by HMI from admitted evidence, not copied from a study baseline. It describes the evidence currently in this scope; it is not a worldwide or current-lot benchmark. Source, year and region filters do not change it. Different HMI scopes are not one common ranking.

HMI winter squash Ni reference · Winter squash, as sold

Reference and scope

HMI winter squash Ni reference · Winter squash, as sold. Winter squash, as sold; As sold, as eaten or fresh weight, µg/kg; no moisture conversion. Distribution of subgroup median concentration values.

Reference (µg/kg)	Q1	Median	Q3
Primary HMI reference	57	57	57
Alternative weighting	57	57	57

1 reference units; 1 sampling family. Counts describe evidence units, not independent studies or certainty.

Contributing family	Reference units	Weight
Dearing et al. 2025	1	100%

Methods

HMI pools subgroup medians for winter squash, as sold on a as sold, as eaten or fresh weight basis: monitoring results summarized as one median per reporting region, sampling type and collection year, total diet composites and printed sample values as single observations, and printed subgroup medians from ordinary farms or markets. Each sampling family has equal total weight. Non-detects stay as zero-to-limit intervals, so quartiles carry lower and upper bounds. Means, ranges and maxima never enter as observations. Other forms, other bases, targeted sampling and results from mining, industrial, wastewater-affected, experimental, fertiliser or manufacturer settings are kept out of this reference.

Inverse weighted empirical CDF; midpoint at exact cumulative-weight boundaries. At least four reference units and a definitely positive Q1 to Q3 spread are required. This is a display eligibility rule, not statistical validation.

Limitations

Dearing et al. 2025 is the only compatible sampling family for winter squash, as sold on this basis in the completed winter squash ledger, so this single-family reference cannot represent other markets. Reporting regions and purchase markets are not growing areas. Non-detects with differing limits widen the bounds. A position is descriptive concentration, not a safety or compliance judgment.

Admitted source families

Dearing et al. 2025

Reference version and interpretation

Frozen evidence selection: 2026-10-22. Method: hmi-pooled-reference-v2.

hmi-pooled-reference-v2:winter-squash-723aa16270dd:8ad689aece92

The reference is computed by HMI from admitted evidence, not copied from a study baseline. It describes the evidence currently in this scope; it is not a worldwide or current-lot benchmark. Source, year and region filters do not change it. Different HMI scopes are not one common ranking.

HMI winter squash Ni reference · Winter squash, as sold, dry weight

Reference and scope

HMI winter squash Ni reference · Winter squash, as sold, dry weight. Winter squash, as sold; Dry weight, µg/kg; no moisture conversion. Distribution of subgroup median concentration values.

Reference (µg/kg)	Q1	Median	Q3
Primary HMI reference	600	1650	2700
Alternative weighting	600	1650	2700

2 reference units; 1 sampling family. Counts describe evidence units, not independent studies or certainty.

Contributing family	Reference units	Weight
Sultana et al. 2021	2	100%

Methods

HMI pools subgroup medians for winter squash, as sold on a dry weight basis: monitoring results summarized as one median per reporting region, sampling type and collection year, total diet composites and printed sample values as single observations, and printed subgroup medians from ordinary farms or markets. Each sampling family has equal total weight. Non-detects stay as zero-to-limit intervals, so quartiles carry lower and upper bounds. Means, ranges and maxima never enter as observations. Other forms, other bases, targeted sampling and results from mining, industrial, wastewater-affected, experimental, fertiliser or manufacturer settings are kept out of this reference.

Inverse weighted empirical CDF; midpoint at exact cumulative-weight boundaries. At least four reference units and a definitely positive Q1 to Q3 spread are required. This is a display eligibility rule, not statistical validation.

Limitations

Sultana et al. 2021 is the only compatible sampling family for winter squash, as sold on this basis in the completed winter squash ledger, so this single-family reference cannot represent other markets. Reporting regions and purchase markets are not growing areas. Non-detects with differing limits widen the bounds. A position is descriptive concentration, not a safety or compliance judgment.

Admitted source families

Sultana et al. 2021

Reference version and interpretation

Frozen evidence selection: 2026-10-22. Method: hmi-pooled-reference-v2.

hmi-pooled-reference-v2:winter-squash-b66a11583546:a6a1ee0db1ef

The reference is computed by HMI from admitted evidence, not copied from a study baseline. It describes the evidence currently in this scope; it is not a worldwide or current-lot benchmark. Source, year and region filters do not change it. Different HMI scopes are not one common ranking.

HMI winter squash Ni reference · Winter squash, cooked

Reference and scope

HMI winter squash Ni reference · Winter squash, cooked. Winter squash, cooked; As sold, as eaten or fresh weight, µg/kg; no moisture conversion. Distribution of subgroup median concentration values.

Reference (µg/kg)	Q1	Median	Q3
Primary HMI reference	≤40	≤40	100
Alternative weighting	≤40	28–48 (bounded)	100

27 reference units; 1 sampling family. Counts describe evidence units, not independent studies or certainty.

Contributing family	Reference units	Weight
FDA Total Diet Study	27	100%

Methods

HMI pools subgroup medians for winter squash, cooked on a as sold, as eaten or fresh weight basis: monitoring results summarized as one median per reporting region, sampling type and collection year, total diet composites and printed sample values as single observations, and printed subgroup medians from ordinary farms or markets. Each sampling family has equal total weight. Non-detects stay as zero-to-limit intervals, so quartiles carry lower and upper bounds. Means, ranges and maxima never enter as observations. Other forms, other bases, targeted sampling and results from mining, industrial, wastewater-affected, experimental, fertiliser or manufacturer settings are kept out of this reference.

Inverse weighted empirical CDF; midpoint at exact cumulative-weight boundaries. At least four reference units and a definitely positive Q1 to Q3 spread are required. This is a display eligibility rule, not statistical validation.

Limitations

FDA Total Diet Study is the only compatible sampling family for winter squash, cooked on this basis in the completed winter squash ledger, so this single-family reference cannot represent other markets. Reporting regions and purchase markets are not growing areas. Non-detects with differing limits widen the bounds. A position is descriptive concentration, not a safety or compliance judgment.

Admitted source families

FDA Total Diet Study

Reference version and interpretation

Frozen evidence selection: 2026-10-22. Method: hmi-pooled-reference-v2.

hmi-pooled-reference-v2:winter-squash-afb5ab1402bd:b7f514a342e7

The reference is computed by HMI from admitted evidence, not copied from a study baseline. It describes the evidence currently in this scope; it is not a worldwide or current-lot benchmark. Source, year and region filters do not change it. Different HMI scopes are not one common ranking.

HMI winter squash Cr reference · Winter squash, as sold, dry weight

Reference and scope

HMI winter squash Cr reference · Winter squash, as sold, dry weight. Winter squash, as sold; Dry weight, µg/kg; no moisture conversion. Distribution of subgroup median concentration values.

Reference (µg/kg)	Q1	Median	Q3
Primary HMI reference	700	850	1100
Alternative weighting	700	850	1100

4 reference units; 1 sampling family. Counts describe evidence units, not independent studies or certainty.

Contributing family	Reference units	Weight
Sultana et al. 2021	4	100%

Methods

HMI pools subgroup medians for winter squash, as sold on a dry weight basis: monitoring results summarized as one median per reporting region, sampling type and collection year, total diet composites and printed sample values as single observations, and printed subgroup medians from ordinary farms or markets. Each sampling family has equal total weight. Non-detects stay as zero-to-limit intervals, so quartiles carry lower and upper bounds. Means, ranges and maxima never enter as observations. Other forms, other bases, targeted sampling and results from mining, industrial, wastewater-affected, experimental, fertiliser or manufacturer settings are kept out of this reference.

Inverse weighted empirical CDF; midpoint at exact cumulative-weight boundaries. At least four reference units and a definitely positive Q1 to Q3 spread are required. This is a display eligibility rule, not statistical validation.

Limitations

Sultana et al. 2021 is the only compatible sampling family for winter squash, as sold on this basis in the completed winter squash ledger, so this single-family reference cannot represent other markets. Reporting regions and purchase markets are not growing areas. Non-detects with differing limits widen the bounds. A position is descriptive concentration, not a safety or compliance judgment.

Admitted source families

Sultana et al. 2021

Reference version and interpretation

Frozen evidence selection: 2026-10-22. Method: hmi-pooled-reference-v2.

hmi-pooled-reference-v2:winter-squash-74e8ef4c64de:86f26eb00e2e

The reference is computed by HMI from admitted evidence, not copied from a study baseline. It describes the evidence currently in this scope; it is not a worldwide or current-lot benchmark. Source, year and region filters do not change it. Different HMI scopes are not one common ranking.

HMI winter squash Cr reference · Winter squash, cooked

Reference and scope

HMI winter squash Cr reference · Winter squash, cooked. Winter squash, cooked; As sold, as eaten or fresh weight, µg/kg; no moisture conversion. Distribution of subgroup median concentration values.

Reference (µg/kg)	Q1	Median	Q3
Primary HMI reference	≤50	≤50	≤50
Alternative weighting	≤50	≤50	≤50

27 reference units; 1 sampling family. Counts describe evidence units, not independent studies or certainty.

Contributing family	Reference units	Weight
FDA Total Diet Study	27	100%

Methods

HMI pools subgroup medians for winter squash, cooked on a as sold, as eaten or fresh weight basis: monitoring results summarized as one median per reporting region, sampling type and collection year, total diet composites and printed sample values as single observations, and printed subgroup medians from ordinary farms or markets. Each sampling family has equal total weight. Non-detects stay as zero-to-limit intervals, so quartiles carry lower and upper bounds. Means, ranges and maxima never enter as observations. Other forms, other bases, targeted sampling and results from mining, industrial, wastewater-affected, experimental, fertiliser or manufacturer settings are kept out of this reference.

Inverse weighted empirical CDF; midpoint at exact cumulative-weight boundaries. At least four reference units and a definitely positive Q1 to Q3 spread are required. This is a display eligibility rule, not statistical validation.

Limitations

FDA Total Diet Study is the only compatible sampling family for winter squash, cooked on this basis in the completed winter squash ledger, so this single-family reference cannot represent other markets. Reporting regions and purchase markets are not growing areas. Non-detects with differing limits widen the bounds. A position is descriptive concentration, not a safety or compliance judgment.

Admitted source families

FDA Total Diet Study

Reference version and interpretation

Frozen evidence selection: 2026-10-22. Method: hmi-pooled-reference-v2.

hmi-pooled-reference-v2:winter-squash-dc8d9900e2e9:bc7dfea16304

The reference is computed by HMI from admitted evidence, not copied from a study baseline. It describes the evidence currently in this scope; it is not a worldwide or current-lot benchmark. Source, year and region filters do not change it. Different HMI scopes are not one common ranking.

HMI winter squash Sn reference · Winter squash, as sold

Reference and scope

HMI winter squash Sn reference · Winter squash, as sold. Winter squash, as sold; As sold, as eaten or fresh weight, µg/kg; no moisture conversion. Distribution of subgroup median concentration values.

Reference (µg/kg)	Q1	Median	Q3
Primary HMI reference	≤10	45	100–130 (bounded)
Alternative weighting	≤10	45	100–130 (bounded)

3 reference units; 1 sampling family. Counts describe evidence units, not independent studies or certainty.

Contributing family	Reference units	Weight
WHO GEMS/Food	3	100%

Methods

HMI pools subgroup medians for winter squash, as sold on a as sold, as eaten or fresh weight basis: monitoring results summarized as one median per reporting region, sampling type and collection year, total diet composites and printed sample values as single observations, and printed subgroup medians from ordinary farms or markets. Each sampling family has equal total weight. Non-detects stay as zero-to-limit intervals, so quartiles carry lower and upper bounds. Means, ranges and maxima never enter as observations. Other forms, other bases, targeted sampling and results from mining, industrial, wastewater-affected, experimental, fertiliser or manufacturer settings are kept out of this reference.

Inverse weighted empirical CDF; midpoint at exact cumulative-weight boundaries. At least four reference units and a definitely positive Q1 to Q3 spread are required. This is a display eligibility rule, not statistical validation.

Limitations

WHO GEMS/Food is the only compatible sampling family for winter squash, as sold on this basis in the completed winter squash ledger, so this single-family reference cannot represent other markets. Reporting regions and purchase markets are not growing areas. Non-detects with differing limits widen the bounds. A position is descriptive concentration, not a safety or compliance judgment.

Admitted source families

WHO GEMS/Food

Reference version and interpretation

Frozen evidence selection: 2026-10-22. Method: hmi-pooled-reference-v2.

hmi-pooled-reference-v2:winter-squash-b538b99b78e0:c3829b03d532

The reference is computed by HMI from admitted evidence, not copied from a study baseline. It describes the evidence currently in this scope; it is not a worldwide or current-lot benchmark. Source, year and region filters do not change it. Different HMI scopes are not one common ranking.

HMI winter squash U reference · Winter squash, cooked

Reference and scope

HMI winter squash U reference · Winter squash, cooked. Winter squash, cooked; As sold, as eaten or fresh weight, µg/kg; no moisture conversion. Distribution of subgroup median concentration values.

Reference (µg/kg)	Q1	Median	Q3
Primary HMI reference	≤1	≤1	≤1
Alternative weighting	≤1	≤1	≤1

27 reference units; 1 sampling family. Counts describe evidence units, not independent studies or certainty.

Contributing family	Reference units	Weight
FDA Total Diet Study	27	100%

Methods

HMI pools subgroup medians for winter squash, cooked on a as sold, as eaten or fresh weight basis: monitoring results summarized as one median per reporting region, sampling type and collection year, total diet composites and printed sample values as single observations, and printed subgroup medians from ordinary farms or markets. Each sampling family has equal total weight. Non-detects stay as zero-to-limit intervals, so quartiles carry lower and upper bounds. Means, ranges and maxima never enter as observations. Other forms, other bases, targeted sampling and results from mining, industrial, wastewater-affected, experimental, fertiliser or manufacturer settings are kept out of this reference.

Inverse weighted empirical CDF; midpoint at exact cumulative-weight boundaries. At least four reference units and a definitely positive Q1 to Q3 spread are required. This is a display eligibility rule, not statistical validation.

Limitations

FDA Total Diet Study is the only compatible sampling family for winter squash, cooked on this basis in the completed winter squash ledger, so this single-family reference cannot represent other markets. Reporting regions and purchase markets are not growing areas. Non-detects with differing limits widen the bounds. A position is descriptive concentration, not a safety or compliance judgment.

Admitted source families

FDA Total Diet Study

Reference version and interpretation

Frozen evidence selection: 2026-10-22. Method: hmi-pooled-reference-v2.

hmi-pooled-reference-v2:winter-squash-58471e66b676:6c31f10ca3f1

The reference is computed by HMI from admitted evidence, not copied from a study baseline. It describes the evidence currently in this scope; it is not a worldwide or current-lot benchmark. Source, year and region filters do not change it. Different HMI scopes are not one common ranking.

HMI winter squash Cu reference · Winter squash, as sold, dry weight

Reference and scope

HMI winter squash Cu reference · Winter squash, as sold, dry weight. Winter squash, as sold; Dry weight, µg/kg; no moisture conversion. Distribution of subgroup median concentration values.

Reference (µg/kg)	Q1	Median	Q3
Primary HMI reference	4950	7700	12800
Alternative weighting	4950	7700	12800

4 reference units; 1 sampling family. Counts describe evidence units, not independent studies or certainty.

Contributing family	Reference units	Weight
Sultana et al. 2021	4	100%

Methods

HMI pools subgroup medians for winter squash, as sold on a dry weight basis: monitoring results summarized as one median per reporting region, sampling type and collection year, total diet composites and printed sample values as single observations, and printed subgroup medians from ordinary farms or markets. Each sampling family has equal total weight. Non-detects stay as zero-to-limit intervals, so quartiles carry lower and upper bounds. Means, ranges and maxima never enter as observations. Other forms, other bases, targeted sampling and results from mining, industrial, wastewater-affected, experimental, fertiliser or manufacturer settings are kept out of this reference.

Inverse weighted empirical CDF; midpoint at exact cumulative-weight boundaries. At least four reference units and a definitely positive Q1 to Q3 spread are required. This is a display eligibility rule, not statistical validation.

Limitations

Sultana et al. 2021 is the only compatible sampling family for winter squash, as sold on this basis in the completed winter squash ledger, so this single-family reference cannot represent other markets. Reporting regions and purchase markets are not growing areas. Non-detects with differing limits widen the bounds. A position is descriptive concentration, not a safety or compliance judgment.

Admitted source families

Sultana et al. 2021

Reference version and interpretation

Frozen evidence selection: 2026-10-22. Method: hmi-pooled-reference-v2.

hmi-pooled-reference-v2:winter-squash-96936608a710:fdff5b83e9c0

The reference is computed by HMI from admitted evidence, not copied from a study baseline. It describes the evidence currently in this scope; it is not a worldwide or current-lot benchmark. Source, year and region filters do not change it. Different HMI scopes are not one common ranking.

HMI winter squash Fe reference · Winter squash, as sold, dry weight

Reference and scope

HMI winter squash Fe reference · Winter squash, as sold, dry weight. Winter squash, as sold; Dry weight, µg/kg; no moisture conversion. Distribution of subgroup median concentration values.

Reference (µg/kg)	Q1	Median	Q3
Primary HMI reference	51400	68900	111000
Alternative weighting	51400	68900	111000

4 reference units; 1 sampling family. Counts describe evidence units, not independent studies or certainty.

Contributing family	Reference units	Weight
Sultana et al. 2021	4	100%

Methods

HMI pools subgroup medians for winter squash, as sold on a dry weight basis: monitoring results summarized as one median per reporting region, sampling type and collection year, total diet composites and printed sample values as single observations, and printed subgroup medians from ordinary farms or markets. Each sampling family has equal total weight. Non-detects stay as zero-to-limit intervals, so quartiles carry lower and upper bounds. Means, ranges and maxima never enter as observations. Other forms, other bases, targeted sampling and results from mining, industrial, wastewater-affected, experimental, fertiliser or manufacturer settings are kept out of this reference.

Inverse weighted empirical CDF; midpoint at exact cumulative-weight boundaries. At least four reference units and a definitely positive Q1 to Q3 spread are required. This is a display eligibility rule, not statistical validation.

Limitations

Sultana et al. 2021 is the only compatible sampling family for winter squash, as sold on this basis in the completed winter squash ledger, so this single-family reference cannot represent other markets. Reporting regions and purchase markets are not growing areas. Non-detects with differing limits widen the bounds. A position is descriptive concentration, not a safety or compliance judgment.

Admitted source families

Sultana et al. 2021

Reference version and interpretation

Frozen evidence selection: 2026-10-22. Method: hmi-pooled-reference-v2.

hmi-pooled-reference-v2:winter-squash-db1eaec35e48:0093826acaf9

The reference is computed by HMI from admitted evidence, not copied from a study baseline. It describes the evidence currently in this scope; it is not a worldwide or current-lot benchmark. Source, year and region filters do not change it. Different HMI scopes are not one common ranking.

HMI winter squash Mn reference · Winter squash, as sold, dry weight

Reference and scope

HMI winter squash Mn reference · Winter squash, as sold, dry weight. Winter squash, as sold; Dry weight, µg/kg; no moisture conversion. Distribution of subgroup median concentration values.

Reference (µg/kg)	Q1	Median	Q3
Primary HMI reference	5950	9750	14900
Alternative weighting	5950	9750	14900

4 reference units; 1 sampling family. Counts describe evidence units, not independent studies or certainty.

Contributing family	Reference units	Weight
Sultana et al. 2021	4	100%

Methods

HMI pools subgroup medians for winter squash, as sold on a dry weight basis: monitoring results summarized as one median per reporting region, sampling type and collection year, total diet composites and printed sample values as single observations, and printed subgroup medians from ordinary farms or markets. Each sampling family has equal total weight. Non-detects stay as zero-to-limit intervals, so quartiles carry lower and upper bounds. Means, ranges and maxima never enter as observations. Other forms, other bases, targeted sampling and results from mining, industrial, wastewater-affected, experimental, fertiliser or manufacturer settings are kept out of this reference.

Inverse weighted empirical CDF; midpoint at exact cumulative-weight boundaries. At least four reference units and a definitely positive Q1 to Q3 spread are required. This is a display eligibility rule, not statistical validation.

Limitations

Sultana et al. 2021 is the only compatible sampling family for winter squash, as sold on this basis in the completed winter squash ledger, so this single-family reference cannot represent other markets. Reporting regions and purchase markets are not growing areas. Non-detects with differing limits widen the bounds. A position is descriptive concentration, not a safety or compliance judgment.

Admitted source families

Sultana et al. 2021

Reference version and interpretation

Frozen evidence selection: 2026-10-22. Method: hmi-pooled-reference-v2.

hmi-pooled-reference-v2:winter-squash-e3abf8385624:cfcce5a98c19

The reference is computed by HMI from admitted evidence, not copied from a study baseline. It describes the evidence currently in this scope; it is not a worldwide or current-lot benchmark. Source, year and region filters do not change it. Different HMI scopes are not one common ranking.

HMI winter squash Zn reference · Winter squash, as sold, dry weight

Reference and scope

HMI winter squash Zn reference · Winter squash, as sold, dry weight. Winter squash, as sold; Dry weight, µg/kg; no moisture conversion. Distribution of subgroup median concentration values.

Reference (µg/kg)	Q1	Median	Q3
Primary HMI reference	16900	20900	27900
Alternative weighting	16900	20900	27900

4 reference units; 1 sampling family. Counts describe evidence units, not independent studies or certainty.

Contributing family	Reference units	Weight
Sultana et al. 2021	4	100%

Methods

HMI pools subgroup medians for winter squash, as sold on a dry weight basis: monitoring results summarized as one median per reporting region, sampling type and collection year, total diet composites and printed sample values as single observations, and printed subgroup medians from ordinary farms or markets. Each sampling family has equal total weight. Non-detects stay as zero-to-limit intervals, so quartiles carry lower and upper bounds. Means, ranges and maxima never enter as observations. Other forms, other bases, targeted sampling and results from mining, industrial, wastewater-affected, experimental, fertiliser or manufacturer settings are kept out of this reference.

Inverse weighted empirical CDF; midpoint at exact cumulative-weight boundaries. At least four reference units and a definitely positive Q1 to Q3 spread are required. This is a display eligibility rule, not statistical validation.

Limitations

Sultana et al. 2021 is the only compatible sampling family for winter squash, as sold on this basis in the completed winter squash ledger, so this single-family reference cannot represent other markets. Reporting regions and purchase markets are not growing areas. Non-detects with differing limits widen the bounds. A position is descriptive concentration, not a safety or compliance judgment.

Admitted source families

Sultana et al. 2021

Reference version and interpretation

Frozen evidence selection: 2026-10-22. Method: hmi-pooled-reference-v2.

hmi-pooled-reference-v2:winter-squash-327b1cd829cf:35a1ecbf6bf0

The reference is computed by HMI from admitted evidence, not copied from a study baseline. It describes the evidence currently in this scope; it is not a worldwide or current-lot benchmark. Source, year and region filters do not change it. Different HMI scopes are not one common ranking.

How metals reach winter squash

The evidence on how metals reach winter squash comes from studies that compared exposed and ordinary settings. Winter squash, as sold from evening purchase had lead higher at 840 µg/kg, against 430 µg/kg for all samples in the same study.^{7Dada AO, Makanjuola BC, Adewumi MO · 2024Level of Heavy Metals in Commonly Consumed Leafy Vegetables Sold in Major Markets within Ibadan Metropolis, South Western, NigeriaJournal of Environment Pollution and Human Health 12(2):24-30Read source →}

These are observational comparisons from single studies; the size of the difference depends on the site, metal and distance.

Which forms and regions measured lower

For cadmium, the HMI reference median was lowest for winter squash, cooked (1.6 µg/kg) and highest for winter squash, as sold (3 µg/kg); forms differ in water content, so this compares foods as sold or eaten, not uptake.^{1World Health Organization · 2026GEMS/Food Contaminants database heavy-metal exportsGEMS/Food Contamination Monitoring and Assessment ProgrammeRead source →}^{2U.S. Food and Drug Administration · 2022FY2018-FY2020 TDS Elements Analytical ResultsFDA Total Diet StudyRead source →}^{10Dearing C, Ye Z, Robertshaw G · 2025Assessment of Heavy Metals in Organic and Non-Organic Vegetables Post Severe Tropical Cyclone Gabrielle: A cross-sectional comparative analysisF1000ResearchRead source →}^{11Jane Houlihan, Charlotte Brody · 2019What’s in My Baby’s Food? A National Investigation Finds 95 Percent of Baby Foods Tested Contain Toxic Chemicals That Lower Babies’ IQ, Including Arsenic and LeadHealthy Babies Bright FuturesRead source →}^{12U.S. Food and Drug Administration · 2024Analytical Results for Arsenic, Lead, Cadmium, and Mercury in Food Intended for Babies and Young Children - TEP (FY2009-FY2024)FDA analytical results tableRead source →} The HMI reference for lead in winter squash, as sold pools 58 subgroup units from 3 sampling families, with a median of between 1 and 4 µg/kg and a middle half spanning 1 (lower quartile) and between 4 and 4.55 µg/kg (upper quartile).^{1World Health Organization · 2026GEMS/Food Contaminants database heavy-metal exportsGEMS/Food Contamination Monitoring and Assessment ProgrammeRead source →}^{11Jane Houlihan, Charlotte Brody · 2019What’s in My Baby’s Food? A National Investigation Finds 95 Percent of Baby Foods Tested Contain Toxic Chemicals That Lower Babies’ IQ, Including Arsenic and LeadHealthy Babies Bright FuturesRead source →}^{12U.S. Food and Drug Administration · 2024Analytical Results for Arsenic, Lead, Cadmium, and Mercury in Food Intended for Babies and Young Children - TEP (FY2009-FY2024)FDA analytical results tableRead source →} For lead in winter squash, cooked, the reference median was below 4 µg/kg, with a middle half from below 4 to below 4 µg/kg across 28 units.^{2U.S. Food and Drug Administration · 2022FY2018-FY2020 TDS Elements Analytical ResultsFDA Total Diet StudyRead source →}^{8Spungen JH, et al. · 2024Infants’ and young children’s dietary exposures to lead and cadmium: FDA total diet study 2018-2020Food Additives & Contaminants: Part ARead source →} For lead in winter squash, as sold, the reference median was 535 µg/kg, with a middle half from 70 to 3,000 µg/kg across 4 units.^{1World Health Organization · 2026GEMS/Food Contaminants database heavy-metal exportsGEMS/Food Contamination Monitoring and Assessment ProgrammeRead source →}^{13Sultana R, Chamon AS, Mondol MN, Tasnim I · 2021Metal concentration in commonly sold fruit vegetables in Dhaka city market and probable health riskDhaka University Journal of Biological Sciences 30(1):35-47Read source →}

Among GEMS/Food reporting regions, winter squash, as sold had the lowest lead subgroup median in PAHO (1.3 µg/kg) and the highest in AFRO (70 µg/kg); reporting regions are markets, not growing areas.^{1World Health Organization · 2026GEMS/Food Contaminants database heavy-metal exportsGEMS/Food Contamination Monitoring and Assessment ProgrammeRead source →} For cadmium, the lowest regional median was in PAHO (3 µg/kg) and the highest in AFRO (350 µg/kg).^{1World Health Organization · 2026GEMS/Food Contaminants database heavy-metal exportsGEMS/Food Contamination Monitoring and Assessment ProgrammeRead source →} For inorganic arsenic, the lowest regional median was in EURO (4.17 µg/kg) and the highest in EURO (81.3 µg/kg).^{1World Health Organization · 2026GEMS/Food Contaminants database heavy-metal exportsGEMS/Food Contamination Monitoring and Assessment ProgrammeRead source →}

In one study, chromium across 4 groups of winter squash ranged from 700 µg/kg (sampling phase 2, Kawran Bazar, Dhaka) to 1,200 µg/kg (sampling phase 4, Kawran Bazar, Dhaka); the lowest is the lowest observed in that study, not an established sourcing preference.^{13Sultana R, Chamon AS, Mondol MN, Tasnim I · 2021Metal concentration in commonly sold fruit vegetables in Dhaka city market and probable health riskDhaka University Journal of Biological Sciences 30(1):35-47Read source →}

Processing, cooking and preparation

Processed or prepared forms were compared only with unprocessed winter squash in the same study and group. Winter squash, cooked (market samples, Konya Province, Turkey (2021 products)) had lead higher at 668 µg/kg, against 288 µg/kg for the unprocessed form in the same group (winter squash, as sold).^{14Akçay Kulluk D, Gökmen F, Dursun N, Özcan MM, Lemiashonak V · 2023Characterization of Heavy Metals in Some Edible Dried Fruits and Nuts Using Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission SpectroscopyErwerbs-Obstbau (Springer); accepted 26 November 2022; volume and pages not printed in the filed PDFRead source →}

Forms differ in water content, so a per-kilogram difference is not by itself a measured removal or gain of metal.

Mitigation for winter squash

Lot testing against the applicable limit is the check that can be verified.

No measured way to lower metals in this food is in the library yet.

Trade-offs and limits of controls

Avoiding exposed growing areas lowered the metal measured in the studies available, but no study measured the cost or supply effect of doing so.^{7Dada AO, Makanjuola BC, Adewumi MO · 2024Level of Heavy Metals in Commonly Consumed Leafy Vegetables Sold in Major Markets within Ibadan Metropolis, South Western, NigeriaJournal of Environment Pollution and Human Health 12(2):24-30Read source →} Metals do not move together, so a lot that passes a lead limit says little about cadmium, arsenic or nickel unless those are tested as well.

Testing winter squash for metals

Results depend on the method and its reporting limit. Reporting limits for lead ranged from 0.83 µg/kg (Altıkulaç et al. 2025) to 3,000 µg/kg (WHO GEMS/Food), so a non-detect from a less sensitive method says much less.^{1World Health Organization · 2026GEMS/Food Contaminants database heavy-metal exportsGEMS/Food Contamination Monitoring and Assessment ProgrammeRead source →}^{15Altıkulaç A, Turhan Ş, Altuner EM, Şekeroğlu B, Kurnaz A · 2025Evaluation of Health Risks Associated with Potential Toxic Elements in Selected Vegetables Consumed in the Western Black Sea Region of TurkeyACS Omega 2025, 10, 8843-8858Read source →} Reporting limits for cadmium ranged from 0.5 µg/kg (WHO GEMS/Food) to 2,000 µg/kg (WHO GEMS/Food), so a non-detect from a less sensitive method says much less.^{1World Health Organization · 2026GEMS/Food Contaminants database heavy-metal exportsGEMS/Food Contamination Monitoring and Assessment ProgrammeRead source →} Reporting limits for total arsenic ranged from 2.79 µg/kg (Altıkulaç et al. 2025) to 200 µg/kg (WHO GEMS/Food), so a non-detect from a less sensitive method says much less.^{1World Health Organization · 2026GEMS/Food Contaminants database heavy-metal exportsGEMS/Food Contamination Monitoring and Assessment ProgrammeRead source →}^{15Altıkulaç A, Turhan Ş, Altuner EM, Şekeroğlu B, Kurnaz A · 2025Evaluation of Health Risks Associated with Potential Toxic Elements in Selected Vegetables Consumed in the Western Black Sea Region of TurkeyACS Omega 2025, 10, 8843-8858Read source →}

A useful lot result names the form, the basis and a quantification limit well below the limit that applies.

Buying and verifying winter squash

No maximum level for metals in winter squash was verified from primary text for this page; buyers should confirm the limit that applies in the destination market.

Exposure from winter squash

No source in the library converted winter squash concentrations into a verified estimate of intake for a defined population. Concentrations describe the food, not individual risk.

Evidence review and remaining gaps

Every source record that names winter squash was decided on its content: 26 occurrence extracted, 26 records in all. The occurrence table renders every extracted result; held values remain visible with their reason.

References identify the sources used in these answers. The Sources index preserves additional discovery links; inclusion there does not mean a source has been reviewed for this assessment. Corrections, completed searches, new direct evidence and changes in requirements should reopen the relevant answer.

Winter squash FAQs

What heavy metals are found in winter squash?

The library reports lead, cadmium, total arsenic, inorganic arsenic, dimethylarsinic acid, monomethylarsonic acid, total mercury, nickel, chromium, aluminium, tin, antimony, uranium, Co, Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn, V, Se, Ba, Mo, Sr and Ti in winter squash, most often lead, cadmium and total arsenic.^{1World Health Organization · 2026GEMS/Food Contaminants database heavy-metal exportsGEMS/Food Contamination Monitoring and Assessment ProgrammeRead source →}^{2U.S. Food and Drug Administration · 2022FY2018-FY2020 TDS Elements Analytical ResultsFDA Total Diet StudyRead source →}^{3Antoine JMR, Hoo Fung LA, Grant CN · 2017Assessment of the potential health risks associated with the aluminium, arsenic, cadmium and lead content in selected fruits and vegetables grown in JamaicaToxicology Reports 4 (2017) 181-187Read source →}^{4Banyen S · 2013Anodic Stripping Voltammetry for Simultaneous Determination of Heavy Metals in VegetablesKMITL Science Journal (Ladkrabang) 22(1), January-June 2556 B.E., pp. 84-99Read source →} WHO GEMS/Food submissions reported lead in winter squash, as sold from 443 results in 4 reporting regions, with subgroup medians from 1.3 to 70 µg/kg.^{1World Health Organization · 2026GEMS/Food Contaminants database heavy-metal exportsGEMS/Food Contamination Monitoring and Assessment ProgrammeRead source →}

How do heavy metals get into winter squash?

In the studies available, winter squash from contaminated or exposed settings carried more metal than winter squash from the same study’s control.^{7Dada AO, Makanjuola BC, Adewumi MO · 2024Level of Heavy Metals in Commonly Consumed Leafy Vegetables Sold in Major Markets within Ibadan Metropolis, South Western, NigeriaJournal of Environment Pollution and Human Health 12(2):24-30Read source →} Winter squash, as sold from evening purchase had lead higher at 840 µg/kg, against 430 µg/kg for all samples in the same study.^{7Dada AO, Makanjuola BC, Adewumi MO · 2024Level of Heavy Metals in Commonly Consumed Leafy Vegetables Sold in Major Markets within Ibadan Metropolis, South Western, NigeriaJournal of Environment Pollution and Human Health 12(2):24-30Read source →}

Which types of winter squash have the lowest levels?

For cadmium, the HMI reference median was lowest for winter squash, cooked (1.6 µg/kg) and highest for winter squash, as sold (3 µg/kg); forms differ in water content, so this compares foods as sold or eaten, not uptake.^{1World Health Organization · 2026GEMS/Food Contaminants database heavy-metal exportsGEMS/Food Contamination Monitoring and Assessment ProgrammeRead source →}^{2U.S. Food and Drug Administration · 2022FY2018-FY2020 TDS Elements Analytical ResultsFDA Total Diet StudyRead source →}^{10Dearing C, Ye Z, Robertshaw G · 2025Assessment of Heavy Metals in Organic and Non-Organic Vegetables Post Severe Tropical Cyclone Gabrielle: A cross-sectional comparative analysisF1000ResearchRead source →}^{11Jane Houlihan, Charlotte Brody · 2019What’s in My Baby’s Food? A National Investigation Finds 95 Percent of Baby Foods Tested Contain Toxic Chemicals That Lower Babies’ IQ, Including Arsenic and LeadHealthy Babies Bright FuturesRead source →}^{12U.S. Food and Drug Administration · 2024Analytical Results for Arsenic, Lead, Cadmium, and Mercury in Food Intended for Babies and Young Children - TEP (FY2009-FY2024)FDA analytical results tableRead source →}

Which regions report the lowest levels in winter squash?

Among GEMS/Food reporting regions, winter squash, as sold had the lowest lead subgroup median in PAHO (1.3 µg/kg) and the highest in AFRO (70 µg/kg); reporting regions are markets, not growing areas.^{1World Health Organization · 2026GEMS/Food Contaminants database heavy-metal exportsGEMS/Food Contamination Monitoring and Assessment ProgrammeRead source →} For cadmium, the lowest regional median was in PAHO (3 µg/kg) and the highest in AFRO (350 µg/kg).^{1World Health Organization · 2026GEMS/Food Contaminants database heavy-metal exportsGEMS/Food Contamination Monitoring and Assessment ProgrammeRead source →}

Does processing change heavy metals in winter squash?

Only comparisons between forms in the same study are available, not before-and-after measurements of the same winter squash.^{14Akçay Kulluk D, Gökmen F, Dursun N, Özcan MM, Lemiashonak V · 2023Characterization of Heavy Metals in Some Edible Dried Fruits and Nuts Using Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission SpectroscopyErwerbs-Obstbau (Springer); accepted 26 November 2022; volume and pages not printed in the filed PDFRead source →} Winter squash, cooked (market samples, Konya Province, Turkey (2021 products)) had lead higher at 668 µg/kg, against 288 µg/kg for the unprocessed form in the same group (winter squash, as sold).^{14Akçay Kulluk D, Gökmen F, Dursun N, Özcan MM, Lemiashonak V · 2023Characterization of Heavy Metals in Some Edible Dried Fruits and Nuts Using Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission SpectroscopyErwerbs-Obstbau (Springer); accepted 26 November 2022; volume and pages not printed in the filed PDFRead source →}

How much of the arsenic in winter squash is inorganic?

Inorganic arsenic, the more toxic form, was measured in 8 results from 4 sources, far fewer than total arsenic.^{1World Health Organization · 2026GEMS/Food Contaminants database heavy-metal exportsGEMS/Food Contamination Monitoring and Assessment ProgrammeRead source →}^{16Laizu J · 2007Speciation of arsenic in vegetables and their correlation with inorganic phosphate levelBangladesh Journal of Pharmacology 2007; 2: 88-94Read source →}^{17Centre for Food Safety FEHD HKSAR · 2012The First Hong Kong Total Diet Study: Inorganic ArsenicCentre for Food Safety, Food and Environmental Hygiene Department, Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative RegionRead source →}^{18European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) · 2014Dietary exposure to inorganic arsenic in the European populationEFSA Journal 2014;12(3):3597Read source →} Laizu 2007 reported inorganic arsenic at 700 µg/kg (mean ± 600 SD) in winter squash, as sold from fruiting vegetables, local market, Dhaka.^{16Laizu J · 2007Speciation of arsenic in vegetables and their correlation with inorganic phosphate levelBangladesh Journal of Pharmacology 2007; 2: 88-94Read source →}

References

Works cited on this page, in citation-number order. See Sources for this page’s source inventory. Each title links to a source record with bibliographic details, reported findings, and document provenance.

GEMS/Food Contaminants database heavy-metal exportsWorld Health Organization · GEMS/Food Contamination Monitoring and Assessment Programme · 2026 · extranet.who.intDataset
FY2018-FY2020 TDS Elements Analytical ResultsU.S. Food and Drug Administration · FDA Total Diet Study · 2022 · www.fda.govDataset
Assessment of the potential health risks associated with the aluminium, arsenic, cadmium and lead content in selected fruits and vegetables grown in JamaicaAntoine JMR, Hoo Fung LA, and Grant CN · Toxicology Reports 4 (2017) 181-187 · 2017 · doi.org/10.1016/j.toxrep.2017.03.006Peer-reviewed
Anodic Stripping Voltammetry for Simultaneous Determination of Heavy Metals in VegetablesBanyen S · KMITL Science Journal (Ladkrabang) 22(1), January-June 2556 B.E., pp. 84-99 · 2013 · li01.tci-thaijo.orgPeer-reviewed
Human health risk assessment of heavy metals in vegetables of BangladeshChowdhury AI, Shill LC, Raihan MM, Rashid R, Bhuiyan MNH, Reza S, et al. · Scientific Reports 2024, 14: 15616 · 2024 · doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-65734-6Peer-reviewed
Heavy metals in vegetables and potential risk for human healthGuerra F, Trevizam AR, Muraoka T, Marcante NC, and Canniatti-Brazaca SG · Scientia Agricola 69(1):54-60 · 2012 · doi.org/10.1590/s0103-90162012000100008Peer-reviewed
Level of Heavy Metals in Commonly Consumed Leafy Vegetables Sold in Major Markets within Ibadan Metropolis, South Western, NigeriaDada AO, Makanjuola BC, and Adewumi MO · Journal of Environment Pollution and Human Health 12(2):24-30 · 2024 · doi.org/10.12691/jephh-12-2-2Peer-reviewed
Infants’ and young children’s dietary exposures to lead and cadmium: FDA total diet study 2018-2020Spungen JH and et al. · Food Additives & Contaminants: Part A · 2024 · doi.org/10.1080/19440049.2024.2396910Peer-reviewed
Assessment of heavy metal levels and associated health risks linked to vegetables grown in Noakhali region of BangladeshKawsar Hossen, Nahian Rahman, Zannatul Ferdowsi, and Tahmina Ferdous · Environmental Health Insights · 2026 · doi.org/10.1177/11786302261440637Peer-reviewed
Assessment of Heavy Metals in Organic and Non-Organic Vegetables Post Severe Tropical Cyclone Gabrielle: A cross-sectional comparative analysisDearing C, Ye Z, and Robertshaw G · F1000Research · 2025 · doi.org/10.12688/f1000research.175538.1Peer-reviewed
What’s in My Baby’s Food? A National Investigation Finds 95 Percent of Baby Foods Tested Contain Toxic Chemicals That Lower Babies’ IQ, Including Arsenic and LeadJane Houlihan and Charlotte Brody · Healthy Babies Bright Futures · 2019 · www.hbbf.orgNGO
Analytical Results for Arsenic, Lead, Cadmium, and Mercury in Food Intended for Babies and Young Children - TEP (FY2009-FY2024)U.S. Food and Drug Administration · FDA analytical results table · 2024 · www.fda.govDataset
Metal concentration in commonly sold fruit vegetables in Dhaka city market and probable health riskSultana R, Chamon AS, Mondol MN, and Tasnim I · Dhaka University Journal of Biological Sciences 30(1):35-47 · 2021 · doi.org/10.3329/dujbs.v30i1.51807Peer-reviewed
Characterization of Heavy Metals in Some Edible Dried Fruits and Nuts Using Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission SpectroscopyAkçay Kulluk D, Gökmen F, Dursun N, Özcan MM, and Lemiashonak V · Erwerbs-Obstbau (Springer); accepted 26 November 2022; volume and pages not printed in the filed PDF · 2023 · doi.org/10.1007/s10341-022-00815-2Peer-reviewed
Evaluation of Health Risks Associated with Potential Toxic Elements in Selected Vegetables Consumed in the Western Black Sea Region of TurkeyAltıkulaç A, Turhan Ş, Altuner EM, Şekeroğlu B, and Kurnaz A · ACS Omega 2025, 10, 8843-8858 · 2025 · doi.org/10.1021/acsomega.3c08152Peer-reviewed
Speciation of arsenic in vegetables and their correlation with inorganic phosphate levelLaizu J · Bangladesh Journal of Pharmacology 2007; 2: 88-94 · 2007 · doi.org/10.3329/bjp.v2i2.576Peer-reviewed
The First Hong Kong Total Diet Study: Inorganic ArsenicCentre for Food Safety FEHD HKSAR · Centre for Food Safety, Food and Environmental Hygiene Department, Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region · 2012 · www.cfs.gov.hkGovernment
Dietary exposure to inorganic arsenic in the European populationEuropean Food Safety Authority (EFSA) · EFSA Journal 2014;12(3):3597 · 2014 · doi.org/10.2903/j.efsa.2014.3597Government

Sources

Browse Winter squash Sources for sources cited on this page and additional discovery candidates. The searchable index distinguishes verified citation use from discovery relationships whose relevance has not been established.

Update history

22 October 2026: Rebuilt from every winter squash record in the library: 26 occurrence sources, references by form and basis, same-study contrasts.

Referenced by

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Heavy metals in Winter squash

Winter squash overview

What counts as winter squash

Heavy metal contamination profile of winter squash

How metals reach winter squash

Which forms and regions measured lower

Processing, cooking and preparation

Mitigation for winter squash

Trade-offs and limits of controls

Testing winter squash for metals

Buying and verifying winter squash

Exposure from winter squash

Evidence review and remaining gaps

Winter squash FAQs

References

Sources

Update history

Related ingredients

Referenced by

Graph View