Determination of Potentially Toxic Metals in Some Selected Sea Foods Sold in Enugu State, Nigeria

Abstract

Seafood is a vital source of protein, but contamination with toxic metals poses significant health risks. This study analyzed the presence of lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), and arsenic (As) in commonly consumed seafood stock fish, singi fish, panda fish, and crayfish purchased from Ogbete Market, Enugu State. The results revealed that Pb levels were high across all samples, exceeding safety limits, while Hg was only detected in stock fish but remained within permissible levels. Cd was absent in panda fish and crayfish but surpassed regulatory thresholds in stock fish (0.344 mg/L) and singi fish (0.110 mg/L). Arsenic was found in all samples but remained within safe limits. The accumulation of these metals in seafood raises serious health concerns, as prolonged consumption can lead to neurological disorders, kidney damage, and cardiovascular diseases. Given the bioaccumulative nature of these toxins, urgent measures are required to regulate metal contamination in fish. This study recommends stringent monitoring of fish feeds, routine quality assessments of farmed seafood, and the enforcement of environmental policies to prevent industrial and agricultural pollutants from contaminating aquatic ecosystems. Ensuring the safety of seafood is critical to public health, and immediate intervention is necessary to mitigate long-term risks associated with toxic metal exposure.