Assessment of Heavy Metal Concentrations in Fresh and Smoked-Dried Catfish from Delta State, Nigeria
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64137/3107-9377/IJMSD-V1I2P102Keywords:
Clarias Gariepinus, Heavy Metals, Smoked Fish, Fresh Fish, Food Safety, NigeriaAbstract
Fish represent a critical source of animal protein, but they also serve as a potential vector for microbial and chemical contaminants. This study evaluated the presence of heavy-metal concentrations (Hg, Pb, Cd) in fresh and smoked Clarias gariepinus sampled from five markets (Amai, Abbey, Kwale, Umutu, Obiaruku) in Ukwuani LGA, Delta State, Nigeria. A total of 50 samples were collected across wet and dry seasons. Heavy metals were quantified using atomic absorption spectrophotometry following acid digestion. The heaviest metal loads were in Amai samples: Hg (0.992 mg/kg), Pb (0.534 mg/kg), and Cd (0.520 mg/kg), exceeding regulatory thresholds. The elevated heavy-metal concentrations suggest a compounded food-safety risk. We recommend strengthened market hygiene, continuous monitoring of fish for both microbial and chemical hazards, and interventions to mitigate environmental metal pollution.
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