Abstract

*Markmanuel D. P., Abasi C. Y. and Markbere O. B.

ABSTRACT

Essential heavy metals are metals required in small amount for normal metabolic and physiological function in living systems. They enhance growth, development, maintenance of cells and tissue and increased general well-beings. They are found naturally in food produces and food supplements. However this study investigated only five essential heavy metals (Zn, Fe, Cu, Mn and Co) in some commonly consumed seafood from the Nun River. The mean metal concentrations (mg/kg/dry weight basis) were determined using AAS, and the results varied considerably among the different seafood species. The fresh water species were found in the hierarchical order of Mn > Fe > Zn > Co > Cu, while the salt water species were in the order of Fe > Mn > Zn > Co > Mn. The mean metals concentrations in this study were all lower than the standard limits of FAO/WHO and IAEA. The non-carcinogenic health risk evaluation also revealed that, the TDI, THQ and HI values were all lower than standard of guidelines limits set by regularly bodies. The results also revealed that, Mn was a major contributor to the HI values accounting over 89% of the HI values of each seafood for both children and adults. Therefore, considering the toxicity of Mn at prolong higher level of exposure and bio-accumulative properties of these metals, moderate intake of these seafood species is recommended.