Bioaccumulation of heavy metals in edible foods in Osun River

Abstract

Heavy metals are present naturally in relatively low amounts in the earth’s crust. But there is an increased alarming rate over the years of heavy metals present in water bodies and in turn aquatic life which has resulted to food poisoning. Trace amounts of some heavy metals, such as Manganese, calcium zinc, and potassium, are key to maintaining the metabolism of the human body but in high concentration could be considered as Metal pollution. Heavy metals can cause poisonings resulting in impaired mental and central nervous function, as well as damage to vital organs. Long-term exposure may result in slowly progressing physical, muscular, and neurological degenerative conditions including cancer. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) enforces action levels for poisonous or deleterious substances in human food and animal feed, including cadmium, lead, mercury, and others from water bodies. Based on this report, Samples of edible foods such as fishes and crabs were obtained from five different locations in Osun River based on activities carried out daily. Results obtained proved that no heavy metal is present in edible foods at Osun river which makes it suitable and recommended for consumption.