Title: Comparative Determination Of Selected Heavy Metals In Different Brands Of Vegetable Oils Sold At International Market, Lokoja, Nigeria
Authors: Mohammed Suleiman, Ogedengbe Umezei Victor, Muhammed Karim Abdulrahim
Volume: 10
Issue: 9
Pages: 259-276
Publication Date: 2026/09/28
Abstract:
This study investigated the comparative determination of selected heavy metals in different brands of vegetable oils sold at International Market, Lokoja, Nigeria. Three brands of vegetable oil samples were analyzed for iron (Fe), copper (Cu), chromium (Cr), cadmium (Cd), and lead (Pb) using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS). The results showed varying concentrations of the heavy metals among the samples. Sample B recorded the highest concentration of iron (1.2400 ppm), while Sample C had the highest concentrations of copper (0.2200 ppm) and lead (0.0800 ppm). Cadmium was detected only in Sample A (0.0800 ppm) and was below the detection limit in the other samples. The variations observed suggest differences in environmental conditions, agricultural practices, processing methods, and storage conditions. Although the concentrations detected were generally low, continuous consumption of contaminated vegetable oils may pose health risks due to bioaccumulation of heavy metals in the body. The study recommends regular monitoring of vegetable oils by regulatory agencies and strict adherence to good manufacturing practices to ensure food safety.