Elemental analysis of spring onion grown around the industrial area of Jos-South local government and sold as food in Bukuru market of Plateau State, Nigeria

Abstract

There is an increased risk of consuming vegetables and fruits grown around industrial areas globally. Scientific documentation of evidence of the high risk of heavy metals that may be absorbed by these plants should be made public. Heavy metals such as copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), cadmium (Cd), iron (Fe), nickel (Ni), and Lead (Pb), alkaline metals such as sodium (Na) and potassium (K), and alkaline earth metal like calcium (Ca) were analysed using atomic absorption flame photometer from a sample of spring onions planted and harvested around the industrial area of Jos-South Local Government and sold for consumption in Bukuru market of Plateau State, Nigeria. Results showed that zinc, iron, nickel, copper, sodium and calcium were found in toxic concentrations, potassium level was reduced, while lead and cadmium levels were below detection levels when the values were compared to the official recommended standard for daily body intake. Vegetables should be consumed from safe areas of cultivation as contaminations with heavy metals may result in serious metal poisoning