Impact of Heavy Metals on the Quality of Garri and Cassava Flour Sold on Lagos – Ibadan Expressway (Imolisa Village)

Abstract

A study was carried out to determine the level of heavy metals in garri and cassava flour in the month of August, September and October 2007 at Imolisa village and the adjoining sale point along Lagos- Ibadan Expressway. The results obtained showed that only lead was detected in the two foodstuff in both locations with the highest value of 0.444 mg/kg and the least value of 0.074 mg/kg while cadmium, nickel and zinc were not detected. Statistical analysis showed that the levels of lead was not significant (p > 0.05) with reference to the safe limit and location. However, some levels were above the permissible level. This could be attributed to emissions from automobiles using leaded fuel plying the road and other anthropogenic activities. Regulatory agencies should enlighten farmers, processors, transporters, marketers and consumers in the cassava value chain on the need for proper handling, storage and consumption of garri and cassava flour devoid of lead. There is also a need for period evaluation and monitoring of heavy metals in these foodstuffs to ensure safety.

Keywords: Heavy metals, vehicular emission, expressway, quality, impact.