ASSESSMENT OF HEAVY METAL CONTAMINATION IN SELECTED EXOTIC VEGETABLE SAMPLES FROM EKE-AWKA MARKET, AWKA, ANAMBRA STATE

Abstract

This study assessed the levels of heavy metals Lead (Pb), Nickel (Ni), Mercury (Hg), Cobalt (Co) and Arsenic (As) in selected exotic vegetables, including spring onion, cabbage, green pea and carrot, using the Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer method. Pb concentration was highest in spring onions (0.03175±0.02 mg/kg) and lowest in green peas (0.0205±0.01 mg/kg), with no significant differences observed among samples (p > 0.05). All Pb levels fell within the acceptable limits set by the WHO/FAO. Nickel concentrations were highest in green peas (0.0695±0.01 mg/kg) and lowest in cabbage (0.04625±0.01 mg/kg), also below the safety thresholds. For Hg, the highest concentration was found in carrots (0.05875±0.02 mg/kg) and the lowest in spring onions (0.0175±0.01 mg/kg), with mean concentrations not significantly different (p > 0.05). Cobalt peaked in spring onions (0.0745±0.02 mg/kg) and was lowest in cabbage (0.03875±0.01 mg/kg), all compliant with WHO/FAO standards. Arsenic levels were highest in green peas (0.033±0.00 mg/kg) and lowest in spring onions (0.01175±0.00 mg/kg), with no significant variations (p > 0.05). While heavy metal concentrations in these vegetables were within safe limits, ongoing monitoring is essential to protect public health and ensure food safety.