Phytoremediation: A Comprehensive Review on the Prospective Benefits and Biosafety of Vegetables

Environmental pollution has raised concern in the scientific community as it causes food shortages, major health problems in humans, and death in domestic animals. It is caused by the entry of pollutants into air, water, and soil in large numbers due to natural and human activities. The studies have reported various remediation strategies to combat the environmental pollution such as phytoremediation. The use of plants to accumulate toxic metal contaminants like mercury, arsenic, cadmium, chromium, and lead has been reported since the past few decades. This type of remediation is cost-effective, non-invasive, and it has long-term applicability. It is also publicly acceptable for the elimination of pollutants from the environment. Contaminants are removed using both in situ and ex situ remediation techniques. Plants can be utilized to gather and metabolize the organic contaminants, and the root area helps with the microbial degradation of these compounds. The conventional and genetic modifications to overexpress the genes responsible for metal uptake and accumulation are also a well-known approach to phytoremediation methods. In India, there are many policies and guidelines adapted to ensure food safety, particularly regarding fruits and vegetables. This chapter is aimed at describing the effects on pollution and pollutants, a detailed account of phytoremediation, and the biosafety method of vegetable and fruits against toxic pollutants.