Chemicals in produce linked to river

ATHENS, Greece, Feb. 17 (UPI) -- Toxic chemicals dumped in a river in central Greece have contaminated vegetables sold in Athens, scientists at Athens University warn.

Scientists found high levels of nickel in onions grown near the Asopos River, while carrots contained large amounts of both nickel and chromium, Kathimerini reported.

The Asopos also is a major source of drinking water in Athens. Last month, Stavros Dinas, the European environmental commissioner, chastised the Greek government for failing to stop chemical dumping in the river.

Tests have shown the river contains high levels of chemicals, especially depleted chromium.

The research done at Athens University confirmed similar findings by the Agricultural University of Athens.