Levels of Some Heavy Metals in African Giant Land Snail (<i>Archachatina marginata</i>) in Major Markets in Abeokuta, South West Nigeria

Abstract

The level of heavy metals (Pb, Cu, Cd) as bio indicator of metal pollution in Abeokuta by analysing snails samples from major markets in Abeokuta. The level of heavy metals (Pb, Cu, Cd) were determined using Atomic absorption Spectrophotometer. Analysis of the results showed that the concentration of lead ranged from 4.15 mg/kg in Omida market to 7.93mg/kg in Lafenwa market. Similarly, Copper concentration ranged from 0.339mg/kg in Omida market to 0.719 mg/kg in Lafenwa market. The highest concentration of Cadmium was at Lafenwa market with a value of 0.06 mg/kg. Lafenwa market showed the highest concentration of the three metals and the trend of metal concentration was of the order Pb > Cu > Cd. The levels of contamination of the snail samples were lower than the recommended FAO/WHO levels. However, there is need for regular periodic checking of heavy metals level of edible snails available in open market to safe guard the health of the general public.