Accumulation of some toxic mineral elements in selected foods marketed in Nigeria

Levels of iron, copper, zinc, manganese, lead, cadmium and nickel in selected foods marketed in Nigeria were determine by atomic absorption spectrometry following wet digestion with a mixture of nitric, perchloric and sulphuric acids (3:2:1). Sixteen fresh an canned food samples were purchased at supermarket stores and local markets in and around Owerri, Nigeria and analysed for levels of the indicated elements. The results showed that the levels of Cd, Pb, Ni, Mn, Cu, Fe, and Zn were 0.16–0.33, 1.63–4.50, 0.06–1.11, 0.19–33.3, 0.12–5.20, 0.52–233.3 and 0.46–19.6ppm, respectively. Marked variations were observed in the levels of elements determined in all the food samples analyzed as indicated by the high coefficient variation. Dietary implications of these metals are also discussed. Keywords: toxin, mineral elements, food, Nigeria Plant Products Research Journal Vol. 8(1) 2004: 18-2