DETERMINATION OF SOME HEAVY METALS CONTENT IN SELECTED BRANDS OF MACARONI, SPAGHETTI AND INSTANT NOODLES SOLD IN SOKOTO

Abstract

This study determined the concentrations of Cadmium (Cd), Copper (Cu), Lead (Pb), and Cobalt (Co) in selected brands of spaghetti, macaroni, and noodles sold in Sokoto, Nigeria. The samples were analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS). The results showed that the mean concentrations of the metals in the pasta samples were 0.0215 mg/kg for Cd, 0.208 mg/kg for Cu, 0.327 mg/kg for Pb, and 0.078 mg/kg for Co. Cadmium and Cobalt levels were within permissible limits, Copper levels were also below the recommended standard, while Lead concentrations in some samples were slightly above the Codex/NAFDAC limit of 0.3 mg/kg. The findings indicated that pasta products in Sokoto are generally safe for consumption; however, continuous monitoring is essential to prevent potential health risks associated with Lead accumulation.