Title: Assessment of Proximate Composition, Heavy Metals, and Antinutritional Factors in Cassava Flakes (Garri) from Ado-Ekiti Markets, Nigeria
Authors: Raymond Alex Ekemube, Peju Zainab Adekojo, Preye Kingsley Nimame
Volume: 9
Issue: 5
Pages: 37-41
Publication Date: 2025/05/28
Abstract:
This Cassava flakes (garri) are a major staple food in Nigeria and West Africa, widely consumed for their affordability and ease of preparation. This study evaluates the proximate composition, heavy metal content, and antinutritional factors in two varieties of cassava flakes (Garri Otun and Garri Agbado) obtained from local markets in Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria. Laboratory analyses were carried out to determine moisture, crude fat, ash, fiber, protein, and carbohydrate content, along with energy indices such as proportion of energy due to fat (PEF), carbohydrate (PEC), protein (PEP), and utilizable energy due to protein (UEDP). Heavy metals including Al, Cd, Ni, Hg, Mn, Fe, Pb, Zn, Cu, and Cr were quantified using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry. Antinutritional factors (phytate, oxalate, and cyanide) were also assessed. Results revealed that both garri types are within acceptable limits for human consumption, with no statistically significant differences in proximate or heavy metal concentrations at the P value of 0.05 significance level. Heavy metal levels were below WHO/FAO permissible thresholds, and antinutrients were present in safe concentrations. This study supports the safe consumption of both Garri Otun and Garri Agbado based on nutritional quality and safety.