Determination of Cadmium Concentration in Eight Nigerian Food Samples from Some Selected Markets using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometric Method

Abstract

This study investigates the presence of cadmium in eight Nigerian food samples from Oja Oba, Ojuwoye and Kuto markets in Kwara, Lagos and Ogun State respectively. The food samples were analyzed using atomic absorption spectrometer. The results obtained revealed that cadmium was present in all the food samples that were analyzed at different concentration ranging from 0.001 ppm to 0.007 ppm. The results showed a permissive concentration of cadmium in the food samples as compared to FAO/WHO Expert Committee on food additives (EFSA, 2012) weekly limit of 2.5 µg/kg body weight. Since trace amount of cadmium is expected in almost all food samples due to natural conditions, it is necessary to pay close attention to cadmium contamination in food samples as continuous intake of food containing cadmium is dangerous to health.