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ABSTRACT
The aim of this study is to assess the levels of Aluminium, Chromium and Thorium in fresh fruits and vegetables samples from Santana, Oba and Uselu markets respectively in Southern Nigeria, as well as to ascertain if they pose health risk to the population. The samples were collected from selected, markets and prepared for analysis using standard methods. Metals were analyzed with an inductively coupled plasma - optical emission spectrometry (IC....). The concentration of Cr and Th in all the markets didn’t exceed the maximum limit set by FAO/WHO, 2001 but that of Al did. The values of their hazard index/quotient didn't exceeded the limit set by IRIS, 2003. Highest levels of Al and Cr were observed in Amaranthus hybridus and Telfairia occidentalis and Citrus sinensis and Amaranthus hybridus respectively. The growing of local fruits and vegetables, in villages, commonly available, which are then taken to markets in cities for sale in South-south Nigeria, can and does contribute a lot to the concentration of heavy metals in the body. This is of importance to the health of the public and it is recommended that there should be regular checks carried out on our food and food crops to ensure their safety.
