Assessment of selected Heavy Metals, Microbial Load and Health Risk Index of Roasted Meat (Suya) in Otukpo and Its Environs, Benue State
Abstract
Roasted meat, commonly known as Suya, is a widely consumed street food in Nigeria, particularly in urban and semi-urban areas like Otukpo, Benue State. Despite its popularity, concerns regarding its safety due to heavy metal contamination and microbial hazards persist. This study assesses the levels of selected heavy metals, bacterial contamination, and potential health risks associated with Suya sold in Otukpo and its environs using standard analytical methods. Heavy metal analysis focused on lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), arsenic (As), mercury (Hg), cobalt (Co), zinc (Zn), iron (Fe), and copper (Cu) using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS). A total of 84 Suya samples were collected and analysed. Microbiological assessments targeted total viable bacteria, coliforms, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Salmonella spp. Physicochemical parameters including pH, moisture, ash, protein, and fat contents, were also determined. Health risk assessments employed Estimated Daily Intake (EDI), Target Hazard Quotient (THQ), and Incremental Lifetime Cancer Risk (ILCR) models. Several samples exceeded FAO/WHO permissible limits for Pb and Cd, posing potential chronic and carcinogenic health risks. Iron levels were high in many samples, with values peaking at 212.03 mg/kg. Microbiological tests revealed elevated bacterial loads and the presence of pathogenic species in multiple samples, indicating poor hygiene practices during handling and vending. Physicochemical parameters showed substantial variability, with pH ranging from 5.68 to 7.19 and protein content reaching up to 27.27%. The presence of toxic heavy metals and pathogenic microorganisms in Suya sold in Otukpo and surrounding areas presents significant public health risks. Regulatory interventions and improved hygiene practices are urgently needed to safeguard consumers and ensure food safety within Nigeria’s informal food sector.