Analysis of Heavy Metal Content and Human Health Risk in Selected Noodles Sold in Major Markets in Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria

Abstract

Five instant noodles samples were analyzed for proximate and heavy metals using established analytical procedures. The proximate analysis revealed the presence of moisture (3.65% - 7.80%), ash (1.11% - 5.50%), fat (13.64% - 18.69%), crude protein (0.167% - 0.202%), crude fiber (1.00% - 9.25%), and carbohydrate (63.68% - 79.72%). All essential elements (Fe and Zn) investigated in the noodle samples occurred within the WHO, (2003) standard threshold limit (10.00 - 50.00 mg/kg and 5.000 - 22.000 mg/kg), whereas heavy metals (Cd, Cr, Mn, Ni, and Pd) in some samples occurred at levels relatively above the WHO, (2003) minimum tolerable limit. A diet high in Pb, As, and Cd can cause permanent health conditions and death, as these metals are highly toxic even in small amounts and cannot be metabolized by the body. As a result, vigilance should be exercised in the subsequent intake of these noodles in order to avoid disorders connected with the accumulation of toxins over time.