Journal of Agriculture
and Environmental Sciences

Food Risk Analysis Related to Heavy Metals in the Phosphates Exploitation Area of Togo
Ekpetsi Bouka, Povi Lawson-Evi, Kwashie Eklu-Gadegbeku, Kodjo Aklikokou, Messanvi Gbéassor

Abstract
Heavy metals are traces elements of natural or anthropogenic origin which present a toxic character for health and environment. Cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb) and zinc (Zn) contents were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry in food of selected family who practice subsistence agriculture on the phosphate mining area of Togo. Control portion was used as food study technique. The survey concerned 54 individuals (men, women and children) and revealed the presence of Pb (0.051 – 0.152mg/kg of fresh matter) and Zn (1.73 – 5.13 mg/kg of fresh matter) in the food. The proportion of individuals having a total daily dose of exposure exceeding the toxicological value of reference for Cd and Zn was estimated at 0%. The determination of essential minerals in the daily consumptions of the surveyed population showed that iron (37-109.7 mg/day) and coppers (35.6-82.9 mg/day) intake exceeded the advised nutritional values. Calcium intake (57.9-206.8 mg/day) of all the individuals was below the advised nutritional values. The food study carried out in the zone showed that the individuals of two families are at risks of toxicity related respectively to lead and cadmium. These risks can be worsened by the state of nutritional deficiencies noted in the surveyed population.

Full Text: PDF     DOI: 10.15640/jaes.v4n1a4