| Abstrakt: |
This study investigates into the adverse impacts of heavy metal concentration on human health, particularly when present in water used in palm oil production in selected industries in Ondo State, Nigeria. Through wet-digestive analysis, the levels of heavy metals including Copper (Cu), Lead (Pb), Manganese (Mn), Zinc (Zn), and Cadmium (Cd) were assessed in both water samples and palm oil products. The results revealed concentrations of heavy metals in water samples and control ranging from Copper (0.167 - 0.297 and 0.143 mg/L), Lead (0.047 - 0.100 mg/L), Manganese (0.250 - 0.327 mg/L), and Zinc (0.0417 - 0.547 mg/L), while palm oil concentrations ranged from Cu (0.327 - 0.100 mg/L), Ni (0.045 - 0.010 mg/L), Pb (0.207 - 0.100 mg/L), Mn (0.390 - 0.183 mg/L), and Zn (0.697 - 0.453 mg/L). Comparison with World Health Organization (WHO) standards indicated that Pb concentrations in water exceeded permissible limits, suggesting potential contamination in palm oil samples. Additionally, a significant positive correlation (p<0.05) was observed between Pb levels in water and palm oil samples, indicating the transfer of lead contaminants into the palm oil during production. These findings underscore the importance of monitoring and regulating heavy metal concentrations in water sources used in palm oil production to safeguard public health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
