Evaluating heavy metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon concentrations in common Nigerian food additives

Abstract

This study analysed heavy metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) contamination in popular spices and food colorants from a market in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, highlighting safety concerns regarding consumption. Utilizing Nitric acid-Hydrochloric acid digestion, AAS, and GC-MS, the analysis revealed that Lead (Pb) - 3.4 ppm, 0.32 ppm, 1.22 ppm, 0.46 ppm and 3.01 ppm in samples A, B, C, D and E respectively, Copper (Cu) concentrations in these five samples were 8.12 ppm, 3.23 ppm, 5.43 ppm, 1.35 ppm and 8.00 ppm, Iron (Fe) concentrations are 55.21 ppm, 31.32 ppm, 38.11 ppm, 22.21, Zinc, and Chromium levels, along with PAHs like naphthalene and chrysene, often exceed WHO standards. The findings indicate that the tested spices contain hazardous contaminant levels, suggesting a need for stricter quality control of local food additives to protect consumer health.