Monitoring and assessment of the potential health risks associated with the toxic heavy metals content in selected fruits grown in Arba Minch region of Ethiopia

摘要

ABSTRACT Heavy metal contamination in foodstuffs is one of the most common problems worldwide. In this regard, this study has evaluated the amount of heavy metals (Zn, Cd, Co, Cu, Ni, Cr, Pb, Mn) in fruits grown in different farmlands (Selle, Kulfo, Lante) of Arba Minch, SNNPR Ethiopia. Not only fruits, the soil and water samples used for cultivation were also analysed using Flame Absorption Atomic Spectrophotometer. The overall concentration of heavy metals in fruits (Avocado, Papaya, Mango, Banana) ranged from (1.3–6.3) (ND-0.001), (0.44–6.2), (0.02–0.31), (ND-0.008), (ND-0.09), (0.12–8.8), (1.3–31) mg/kg for Zn, Cd, Cu, Co, Pb, Cr, Ni, Mn, respectively. The major parameters such as Daily Heavy Metal Intake (DIM) and Hazard Quotient (HQ) were analysed to estimate the health risk associated with fruit consumption. The value of hazard index of all the heavy metals in fruits was less than unity; thus, the consumption of these fruits is unlikely to pose health risks to the target population. However, periodical monitoring of heavy metal contents in foodstuffs are needed to ensure safe food for all.