The Potential Use of Mineral Contents in Aronia (Aronia melanocarpa) Leaves from Different Harvest Periods in Animal Nutrition

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the mineral composition of Aronia (Aronia melanocarpa) leaves at different phenological stages and evaluate their potential use in animal nutrition. Leaf samples were collected from Aronia plants cultivated in Erzincan (Türkiye) during three different harvest periods and analyzed using ICP-MS to determine the concentrations of 19 elements (Na, K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Zn, Cu, Mn, Co, Ni, Al, Cr, V, Sr, As, Cd, Pb, Hg, Ag). Statistical evaluation was performed to assess differences among harvest times. The results revealed that Aronia leaves are particularly rich in macro minerals (Na, K, Ca, Mg) and micro minerals (Mn, Zn, Cu), indicating their potential as a complementary natural mineral source in ruminant feeding. While concentrations of As, Cd, Pb, and Ag remained well below the maximum tolerable limits established by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), mercury (Hg) levels exceeded the recommended safety threshold. This highlights the influence of environmental factors on toxic element accumulation. In conclusion, Aronia leaves exhibit a balanced mineral profile and may serve as a sustainable and safe feed additive in animal nutrition, provided that regular monitoring and quality control are implemented to manage heavy metal risks.