Heavy Metal Content of Cow's Milk from Maiduguri Metropolis and Its Environs, Borno State Nigeria

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Heavy Metal Content of Cow's Milk from Maiduguri Metropolis and Its Environs, Borno State Nigeria

Journal Title: American journal of Engineering Research - Year 2018, Vol 7, Issue 3

Abstract

Milk is a very important component of human diet. The presence of heavy metals in milk at high concentration may create significant health problems. This study therefore was aimed at determining the level of the heavy metals: Pb, Cu, Cr, Co, Cd, Zn, Ni, Fe, Mn and Ag in fresh milk samples from, Kasuwan shanu (cattle market), University of Maiduguri animal farm and Jimtilo village all in Jere local government area; and Auno in Konduga local government area, Nigeria. Samples were collected from lactating cows by milking manually in the morning hours. Collection was done in phases; the first three month of lactation; the six, and the ninth month of lactation period. Samples were digested by the optimized microwave digestion method using HNO3 and H2O2. Sample analysis was done using Atomic Absorption Spectrometer. The results indicate that, of all the elements determined Fe has the highest concentration that ranged from 0.365 to 10.688 µg/g followed by Mn (0.047 to1.965µg/g), then Pb (0.168 to 1.394 µg/g) and to some extent Zn which ranged from 0.130 to 1.177 µg/g. The level of Cd ranged from 0.005 to 0.028µg/g. Increase in the level of some of the elements is proportional to the lactation periods and as well as the rate of feeding which is one of source of the elements by the lactating cow. The sampling site in this study are primary supplier of milk to Maiduguri Metropolis, it may be ascertained that, milk from these areas of study are good sources of Fe, and to some extent Mn and Zn. Milk from these site therefore contributes to the total iron and zinc intake. Consumption of milk form Maiduguri may be free of risks, but bioaccumulation of Pb, Cd and to certain level Ni through the food chain and intake from other food stuff should also be of concern. Special attention should also be given to heavy metals as once they are present in concentrations greater than the acceptable daily intake, may be dangerous to health especially children.

Authors and Affiliations

Garba, S. T. , Abdullahi, S.

Keywords

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EP ID EP396496
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