An Assessment of the Metal Concentrations in Maize (Zea Mays) Cultivated in Karu Local Government Area, Nasarawa State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study aimed to assess the levels of heavy metal content in milled Maize (Zea mays) and Maize bran in Uke Local Government Area, Nasarawa State, Nigeria. Three communities were selected for the study using a sampling technique. Laboratory analysis was conducted to determine the Fe, Co, Pb, Mn, and Cu levels in the milled and bran maize samples. The data obtained underwent statistical analyses using ANOVA and regression. The results showed that the concentration of Pb was highest in milled maize (0.555 mg/kg), while Mn (0.21 mg/kg) had the lowest concentration among all combinations. These findings were within the acceptable consumption limits of the World Health Organization (WHO).  It is recommended that routine monitoring of heavy metals is conducted in food to prevent excessive accumulation upon consumption.