ABSTRACT
The Determination of polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon in cocoa sample sold and consumed from two different spot within University of Benin Edo State, Nigeria were to ascertain their potential toxicity. Some of these PAHs have concentration higher than the maximum limits set by Commission Regulation (EU) No 1881/2006 for food and drinks in Nigerian. This research was carried out to compare the level of PAHs in cocoa, with the Commission Regulations recommended limits. These PAHs where extracted using Solute Solvent extraction with the use of Dichloromethane and n-hexane with a 1:1 ratio. From the result obtained from various samples, it reveals that in sample A, Anthracene, chrysene, Benzo (b) fluoranthene, Benzo (k) fluoranthene, Benzo (a) pyrene, indenol (1, 2, 3, -cd). Pyrene Dibenz (ah) anthracene Benzo (ghi) perylene were all below detection limits while in sample B chrysene, Benzo (a) anthrancene, Benzo (b) fluoranthene, Dibenz(ah) anthrancene, Benze g,h,i). perylene were also below detection limits. While the rest of them are above detection limits. And these pahs e.g. Naphthalene, Acenaphthylene, Acenaphthene, fluorene, phenanthrene, pyrene, phenanthrene, fluoranthene etc. are carcinogenic in nature, increase rate of cardiouvascular diseases. In summary, these PAHs are toxic in nature and so it is advised that the regulatory body should monitor and control the quality of cocoa sold in other areas to ensure safe consumption and minimize risk.
