Objective: To learn boron background value of some foodstuffs in China and estimation the primary intake of boron.
Methods: A total of 1035 grain, meat and fruit samples collected from 12 provinces in 2010 were analyzed for boron by ICP-MS. The primary intake of boron was estimated by using the data of "Survey on the Status of Nutrition and Health of Chinese People" in 2002.
Results: Soybeans contain the highest concentration of boron among all the surveyed foodstuffs, with the background valued is 39.46 mg/kg. Fruit and pork contain second highest concentration of boron, with the background value range from 4 mg/kg to 7 mg/kg. Beef, mutton, rice and wheat flour contain less boron than other foodstuffs, with background value less than 4 mg/kg. The primary intake of boron for Chinese habitants is 1.62 mg per day and rice is the main source of dietary boron.
Conclusion: Boron concentration varies in different foodstuffs and soybeans are rich in boron. The average intake of boron for Chinese habitants was among the safe range if no illegal boron added to food.