Determination of the Level of Heavy Metal Ions Present in Pasta (noodles, Macaroni and Spaghetti) Sold in Dialogue, Opposite Kaduna State University

The presence of heavy metals in pasta products, specifically Nickel, Copper, Cadmium, Lead, Cobalt, and Manganese, was evaluated in this study. Three Golden Penny pasta samples (noodles, macaroni, and spaghetti) commonly consumed in Nigeria were analyzed. Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS) was employed to quantify the concentrations of these heavy metals. Notably, the results showed significant concentrations of these elements in the pasta samples. However, the detected levels were found to be within the permissible limits established by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO) which is from 0.003-1.000mg/kg. The concentration of Copper, cadmium, lead, cobalt, and manganese were within and below permissible range in the samples. The concentrations of Nickel ranges from(0.037- 1.051mg/kg) with Goldenpenny noodles having the highest of 1.051mg/kg which is above WHO standard of 0.2000mg/kg. To mitigate potential health risks, it is essential to exercise caution when consuming these pasta products regularly. The buildup of heavy metals in the human body over an extended period can have detrimental effects, particularly when these metals are present in high concentrations. Therefore, prudent measures should be taken to minimize frequent dietary intake of these pasta products and prevent associated health problems.