DETERMINATION OF THE CONCENTRATION OF HEAVY METALS IN WATERMELON, PINEAPPLE AND CARROT FROM EKOSODIN, OVIA NORTH EAST LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, BENIN CITY, EDO STATE

ABSTRACT

The concentrations of Zn, Pb, Cd, Cr and Fe in pineapple, carrots and watermelon have been measured while taking safety into consideration. Fresh fruit samples were gathered for this study from Ekosodin in Edo State, to determine the levels of heavy metals present, the samples were prepared utilizing accepted techniques. Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS) model Buck Scientific VGP210 was used for the analytical step in order to detect the concentration of heavy metals in pineapple, watermelon and carrots. The pattern in the analytical data is Fe 32.50mg/kg. Cr 3.50 mg/kg, Zn 25.00 mg/kg, for watermelon. Cr 2.50 mg/kg, Zn 18.00 mg/kg, Fe 35.00 mg/kg for carrots and Fe 0.40 mg/kg, Zn 0.08 mg/kg, Cr 0.05 mg/kg for pineapple The results showed high levels of chromium in the three samples with average 2.01 mg/kg which exceeded the European union standard of 0.2mg/kg. The results of this study will offer insightful information on the concentrations of these particular heavy metals in watermelon pineapple and carrots, enabling a thorough evaluation of potential dangers related to their consumption. Additionally, this study will help develop recommendations to reduce heavy metal contamination in fruits and raise public awareness about food safety.