Assessment of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in indoor air of local public eatery in Ado-Ekiti, Western Nigeria

Abstract

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are pollutants generated during the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels and organic materials. In Nigeria, most local eateries, canteens, and commercial cooking operate using charcoal or wood as fuel for energy towards food preparation and their kitchens are usually close to the sitting area of the customers. Hence, this study determined the concentrations of PAHs in some selected local public eatery in Western Nigeria; it also determined the possible implication of exposure to PAHs emanating from these kitchens to customer health. 16 PAHs were monitored in some selected eateries and canteens in Ado Ekiti, Nigeria using Polyurethane Foam (PUF) passive samplers. Analysis of PAHs was done using HP 6890/5973 GC-MS on selected ionization mode (SIM). The findings revealed the mean PAHs concentration range of 0.163 - 0.239 ngm−3. The values of incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) and Hazard Quotient (HQ) from inhalation of PAHs present in the indoor air of local canteens are lower than WHO and USEPA permissible limit. Although local restaurants and canteens across Ado Ekiti pose no significant risk to human health on short-term exposures with regards to PAH inhalation. However continuous exposure to these pollutants in these indoor environments is of great concern.