ASSESSMENT OF HEAVY METAL CONCENTRATIONS IN SELECTED VEGETABLES FROM SUKUR KINGDOM, MADAGALI LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, ADAMAWA STATE, NIGERIA

Heavy metal contamination in vegetables is a critical public health concern due to accumulation from soils, irrigation water, and agrochemicals. This study assessed concentrations of selected heavy metals—lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), and nickel (Ni)—in five vegetables: spinach (Amaranthus spp.), okra (Abelmoschus esculentus), tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), sorrel (Hibiscus sabdariffa), and sesame (Sesamum latum) from Sukur Kingdom, Madagali LGA, Adamawa State, Nigeria. Samples were collected from five representative farms, digested using wet-acid digestion, and analyzed by Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS). Results revealed that Pb and Cd concentrations in spinach and sorrel exceeded FAO/WHO permissible limits, while other metals were within safe limits. Health risk assessment using Estimated Daily Intake (EDI) and Target Hazard Quotient (THQ) indicated potential non-carcinogenic risks for children and adults consuming contaminated vegetables. The findings underscore the importance of regular monitoring and adoption of safe agricultural practices to ensure food safety.