Standard Organization Of Nigeria Research Articles

Comparative analysis of the physicochemical properties and trace metal content of palm oil, from selected markets in Jos south and Jos north LGA, Plateau state, Nigeria

The quality of palm oil samples collected from three different markets in Jos South and Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State were analyzed and evaluated using standard analytical laboratory procedures. The relative ranges of the physicochemical values obtained were as follows; Moisture Content (MC): 0.56 - 1.89, Iodine value (IV); 51.88 - 55.57 g I2/100g, Peroxide Value (PV): 0.98 - 4.16 mEq02/kg, Saponification Values (SV): 198.46 - 201.54 mgKOH/g, Acid Value (AV): 9.93 - 57.65, and Refractive Index (RI), 1.4576 - 1.4580. The moisture content, iodin value, pH values and acid values were found to exceed the Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON) permissible limits of moisture content (0.29 mgKOH/g), iodine value (45 - 53 mg I2/100g), pH (5 - 7 mg/L), and acid value (0.7 max mg/L) for edible oils respectively while the refractive index, saponification values, peroxide values falls within the SON allowable limits of refractive index (1.4612-1.4707 mg/L), saponification value (195-205 mgKOH/g) and peroxide value (10 mEq02/kg) respectively . The amounts of trace metals (Cu, Zn, Fe, Pb and Cd) determined in the palm oil using the atomic absorption spectrophotometer ranged from Cu(0.34 - 0.52 mg/l), Zn(1.58 - 2.33 mg/l), Fe(19.18 - 26.74 mg/l), Pb(2.87 - 4.06 mg/l) and Cd(1.58 - 2.24 mg/l). However, the levels of Zn, Fe, Pb and Cd exceeded the WHO/FAO recommended values of (1.50, 1.00, 0.05 and 0.02 mg/L) respectively while only Cu concentration was below the WHO/FAO limits of 2.00 mg/L for trace metals in edible palm oil. Consequently, the results of this study shows that the palm oil consumed from these selected markets does not meet the standard quality specification for edible palm oils and hence can post significant health threat to consumers. Therefore, food regulatory agencies should strengthen their surveillance to promote food and health safety of the populace.

Fake Product Detection with Blockchain Technology

Consumers and brands are at serious risk due to the growth of counterfeit goods, especially in regions like Nigeria. Conventional techniques, such border inspections and market raids by the Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON), are inadequate for detecting counterfeit goods. To ensure traceability, transparency, and immutability in the supply chain, this article suggests utilizing blockchain technology. The decentralized and encrypted characteristics of blockchain, when bolstered by smart contracts, enable efficient product tracking from producers to end users, hence impeding the infiltration of fake goods. Using a permissioned blockchain network, this system attempts to confirm the legitimacy of products at every point along the supply chain—manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and end users. The Remix IDE is used to deploy and test Ethereum-based smart contracts that were created in Solidity for the proposed system. This blockchain-based strategy aims to decrease the spread of counterfeit goods, protect consumer confidence, and preserve brand reputation. To offer a user-friendly interface for wider accessibility, future advancements will link this system with decentralized apps (DApps).

Qualitative and quantitative water investigation of Erin-Ijesha (Olumirin) Waterfall, Erin-Ijesha, Nigeria

This study focused on the assessment of water quality in Erin-Ijesha (Olumirin) Waterfall, a prominent natural attraction in southwestern Nigeria. The physiochemical parameters, heavy metal concentrations, and bacteriological characteristics were examined in the upstream, midstream, and downstream sections, to ensure the resource quality and safety from harm. The results revealed notable variations in water quality. The pH, Total Dissolved Solids, Electrical Conductivity, and Temperature were highest in the midstream while Total Hardness, Alkalinity, salinity, Chloride, sulphate, Phosphate, Nitrate, Calcium, and Magnesium were highest in the downstream section. The physicochemical parameters were within the acceptable limits of World Health Organization (WHO), United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), and the Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON) standards, except the pH, temperature, and Total Hardness were higher than the acceptable limits of 6.5–8.5, <25 °C or >50 °C and 50 mg/L in all the sections. Iron was above the WHO, USEPA, and SON permissible limits of 3.0 mg/L in all the sections of the river while there was no indication of copper, lead, and cadmium. Bacterial contamination, particularly the presence of E. coli, exceeded recommended safety thresholds. The Total Bacterial Count (TBC) exceeded safety limits by 0.1 million cfu/mL in the downstream. The mean of the parameters was higher in some instances, and sometimes lower than the values in the various sections of the river. A significant relationship existed between most physical, chemical, and bacteriological parameters at p < 0.01. The appraisal of water quality in Olumirin Waterfalls emphasizes the need for proactive measures to ensure water safety, preserve ecosystems, and promote responsible water resource management.

Determination of Sulphur Dioxide (SO&amp;lt;sub&amp;gt;2&amp;lt;/sub&amp;gt;) Air Emission of Refined Petroleum Products by Emission Factor Approach for Air Pollution Control

Air pollution control is a safe method for achieving a sustainable environment and can be accomplished by adequately monitoring pollutants that pose significant environmental risks. The combustion of sulfur-containing petroleum products has been a major concern for several decades. Therefore, this study was aimed at determining sulfur levels in refined petroleum products such as Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), and Dual-Purpose Kerosene (DPK). It also investigated the air quality implications of sulfur levels and estimated the contribution of the refinery’s products to sulfur dioxide air emission. Fuel samples were collected from the Warri Refining and Petrochemical Company (WRPC) in Nigeria and analyzed using Ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometer (UV-Vis) and Energy-Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence (EDXRF). Sulfur levels were determined at 425 nm wavelength, and sulfur dioxide air emission were estimated for seven consecutive years from 2010 to 2016 using the emission factor approach. The densities of PMS, AGO, and DPK were 0.77 kg/l, 0.832 kg/l, and 0.82 kg/l respectively. The levels of sulfur in PMS, AGO, and DPK were 2.007 x 10&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;-4&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt; %, 6.970 x 10&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;-5&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt; wt%, and 4.233 x 10&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;-5&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt; wt% respectively from UV-Vis technique and 0.016, 0.087 and 0.029% respectively for EDXRF technique were found below the sulfur limit of 0.015 %, 0.005 % and 0.015 % for PMS, AGO and DPK respectively specified by Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON) specifications of 0.1, 0.5 and 0.15wt% for PMS, AGO and DPK respectively. The annual sulfur dioxide emissions were obtained for seven consecutive years from 2010 to 2016. The results from UV-VIS were observed to have the highest SO&amp;lt;sub&amp;gt;2&amp;lt;/sub&amp;gt; emission of 0.1718 tons for PMS in 2011, 0.2593 tons in 2010 for AGO, and 0.0974 tons for DPK in 2010, while the lowest emission was observed to be 0.029 tons for PMS in 2015, 0.0362 tons in 2015 for AGO and 0.0181 tons for DPK also in 2015. The results from EDXRF technique were observed to have the highest SO&amp;lt;sub&amp;gt;2&amp;lt;/sub&amp;gt; emission of 13.6939 tons for PMS in 2012, 323.6881 tons for AGO in 2010, and 66.7147 tons for DPK also in 2010, while the lowest emissions for PMS, AGO and DPK were all observed in 2015 to be 2.3122, 45.1872, and 12.4182 tons respectively. The study concluded that the refinery complied with the set requirements.

Entry-Level Export Strategies in Developing African Countries

Considering Nigeria as an economically and demographically viable target market, this study examined entry-level export strategies that could facilitate the expansion of foreign firms to the Nigerian market. It was necessitated by the intricacies experienced by foreign companies in obtaining credible information about the Nigerian market for internationalization decision-making. The study adopted a narrative literature review design, relying on experiential insights and secondary data obtained from government and industrial sources in Nigeria to obtain the information presented in the investigation. An in-depth content analysis method was used to analyze the secondary data obtained for the study. From its findings, it was revealed that Nigeria is a profoundly viable export destination for a wide variety of foreign products including consumer electronics, ICT accessories, fashion, cosmetics and smartphone accessories. Nevertheless, the country’s volatile economic condition poses substantial risks for foreign companies in terms of foreign currency fluctuations; but using an export strategy, these risks can be considerably mitigated. This indicates the need for careful and deliberate export planning before entry into Nigeria to ensure that exporters familiarize themselves with information and knowledge of the workings of the Nigerian market. To this end, we recommend that intending export companies should carefully select suitable market segments they can consistently serve; they should also ensure to obtain all necessary certifications and permits from key agencies like the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), and Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON) to ensure smooth operations; and in terms of export entry option, we recommend a hybrid approach (direct and indirect exportation), which avails companies the opportunity of using local expertise and network to achieve effective distribution while maintaining strong control over their products.

Impact of abattoirs and local textile (Adire and Kampala) effluents on Yemoja River in Abeokuta, Nigeria.

Discharge of untreated wastewater into water bodies pollutes the receiving waters. This study assessed the impact of abattoir and Kampala designers' effluent discharge on the water quality of the Yemoja River in Abeokuta, Nigeria. Twenty-seven water samples collected at three points, covering 180 m length, for 6 months were assessed for physicochemical parameters and metals and compared with the World Health Organization (WHO) and Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON) permissible standards. Most discharge point levels were found to be higher than their corresponding upstream and downstream values. Temperature, turbidity, magnesium, alkalinity, DO, TSS, phosphate, lead, BOD and potassium were found to be higher than normal levels for river water as prescribed by the WHO and SON while parameters like TDS, TS, calcium, chloride, nitrate, sulphate, iron and COD were lower than the standards. The total coliform values were higher than both national and international permissible limits, indicating contamination by human sewage or animal droppings. The water quality index indicated polluted water that is unfit for consumption. Findings from this research indicate that butchering and tie-and-dye activities have impacted river Yemoja water quality. Therefore, wastewater from the abattoir and textile industries be treated before discharge into water bodies.

Multivariate analysis of seasonal changes of chemical elements in groundwater around Solous lll dumpsite, Lagos, South-West Nigeria

The study of changes in groundwater quality across the study areas became necessary to track the sources of the contamination in the water sources. Assessment of the physiochemical parameters of groundwater samples obtained from both borehole and hand-dug wells were conducted around the Solous III dumpsite, Lagos, South-western, Nigeria. Multivariate statistics such as correlation coefficient analysis, Hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) and principal component analyses (PCA) were utilised to assess the mode of association of parameters and their interrelationships to establish possible sources of groundwater contamination. Eight groundwater samples were obtained around the dumpsite during the wet and dry seasons for analyses of their physicochemical properties. The results of the analyses of water samples indicated seasonal changes for the various elemental constituents analysed. There was generally an increase in mean concentration of total dissolved solid (TDS), pH, temperature and hardness in the dry season study, and a corresponding increase in the mean concentration of Ca2+, Mg2+, Na+, SO42−, NO32−, Pb, and Cr, when compared with the wet season. On the other hand, there was reduction in the mean concentration of electrical conductivity (EC), K+, Cl−, PO43−, Fe, Zn, Mn, Cu, and Ni in the dry season when compared with the wet season. Some of the water sample parameters exhibited high concentration when compared with the World Health Organisation (WHO)/Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) standards, which may be due to the impact of leachate migration from the dumpsite. Five varimax rotated factor loadings and communalities were responsible for 30 % and 35 % of the total variance in the data set during wet and dry seasons respectively. The PCA parameters identified to be influencing the quality of water are perhaps related to anthropogenic activities from the dumpsite, soluble mineral dissolution, rock–groundwater interaction and weathering activities while PCA performed on samples of groundwater during wet and dry seasons indicated 2 and 3 important clusters, respectively. The clusters of parameters as observed in the parameters dendrograms clearly validates the results earlier obtained in the correlation analysis component of this research. The dendrogram was also able to reflect variation in the quality of water with season as indicated in the difference in the number of clusters during both wet and dry seasons. The outcome of this research should help highlight and focus water quality management on key chemical elements of concern and prioritize efforts to mitigate their release into groundwater around the study area. By extension, this research work offers specific contribution to achieving the Africa's Union's Agenda 2063 Goal No. 7 i.e. Environmentally sustainable and climate resilient economies and communities, with Priority Area of Water Security.

Physico-Chemical and Bacteriological Quality of Household Drinking Water from Source to Point of Use in Akewu Community in Ibadan, Oyo State, Southwest, Nigeria

Poor household water storage is one of the major factors contributing to contamination of drinking water in Nigeria. Studies have shown that sizes of containers opening can affect water quality, but little has been documented on comparative effect of storage containers with different opening sizes in improving drinking water quality in Ibadan. This study was designed to assess the effect of different storage containers on household drinking water quality in selected communities in Ibadan. A quasi-experimental design was adopted. Four communities in Ibadan North Local Government namely; Akewu using protected springs as household drinking water sources were purposively selected. Forty-four households (11 from each community) were selected and randomly assigned to four treatment groups; those with Covered Buckets with Taps (CBT), Covered Buckets without Tap (CB), Covered Kegs with Taps (CKT) and Covered Kegs without Tap (CK). Prior to introducing the treatment containers, water samples were collected from their Regular Storage Containers (RSC) and springs for physicochemical and bacteriological analysis using standard methods. Participants were thereafter encouraged to store drinking water in the treatment containers provided for them. Water samples were later collected from CBT, CB, CKT and CK containers twice daily for 3 alternate days over two weeks for bacteriological analysis. In addition, oldest female of selected households were interviewed using a pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire to elicit information on their socio-demographic characteristics, storage container cleaning and handwashing practices. Results of physicochemical and bacteriological findings were compared with Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) guidelines. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, t- test and ANOVA at p=0.05. At baseline, mean pH values of water samples from the springs and RSC were 6.4±0.6 and 7.1±0.7 respectively compared with 6.5-8.5 limits recommended by SON. Mean chloride concentration of springs (14.3±7.4mg/l) and RSC (19.3±10.0 mg/l) samples were below 250mg/l limit recommended by SON. Mean Total Coliform Count (TCC) of the springs in the four communities was 18.0±4.0 and mean TCC of RSC was 12.7±4.9 which exceeded the SON standard of 10MPN/100ml. Five percent of water samples from RSC had mean E.coli count of 100/100ml compared with SON guidelines of 0/100ml. The mean TCC after introducing CB, CBT, CK and CKT in all the communities were 10.0±4.0, 8.5±4.2, 6.9±2.8 and 7.3±3.7 respectively (p&lt;0.05). No E.coli was found in the samples collected from the treatment storage containers. The percentage difference of coliform count in water from springs and RSC was 29.4% while percentage difference from RSC and CB, CBT, CK and CKT were 21.5%, 33.2%, 45.5% and 42.5% respectively. Mean age of the 44 respondents interviewed was 37.9±10.7years. Seventy-three percent washed their hands with only water after defecation and 95.0% stored water for cooking and drinking in the same container. Sixty-eight percent cleaned their containers weekly while 32.0% cleaned twice weekly.

Comparative Analysis of the Physico-Chemical Properties and Trace Metal Content of Palm Oil, from Selected Markets in Jos South and Jos North LGA, Plateau State, Nigeria.

The quality of palm oil samples collected from three different markets in Jos South and Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State were analyzed and evaluated using standard analytical laboratory procedures. The relative ranges of the physicochemical values obtained were as follows; Moisture Content (MC): 0.56 - 1.89, Iodine value (IV); 51.88 - 55.57 g I2/100g, Peroxide Value (PV): 0.98 - 4.16 mEq02/kg, Saponification Values (SV): 198.46 - 201.54 mgKOH/g, Acid Value (AV): 9.93 - 57.65, and Refractive Index (RI), 1.4576 - 1.4580. The moisture content, iodin value, pH values and acid values were found to exceed the Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON) permissible limits of moisture content (0.29 mgKOH/g), iodine value (45 - 53 mg I2/100g), pH (5 - 7 mg/L), and acid value (0.7 max mg/L) for edible oils respectively while the refractive index, saponification values, peroxide values falls within the SON allowable limits of refractive index (1.4612-1.4707 mg/L), saponification value (195-205 mgKOH/g) and peroxide value (10 mEq02/kg) respectively . The amounts of trace metals (Cu, Zn, Fe, Pb and Cd) determined in the palm oil using the atomic absorption spectrophotometer ranged from Cu(0.34 - 0.52 mg/l), Zn(1.58 - 2.33 mg/l), Fe(19.18 - 26.74 mg/l), Pb(2.87 - 4.06 mg/l) and Cd(1.58 - 2.24 mg/l). However, the levels of Zn, Fe, Pb and Cd exceeded the WHO/FAO recommended values of (1.50, 1.00, 0.05 and 0.02 mg/L) respectively while only Cu concentration was below the WHO/FAO limits of 2.00 mg/L for trace metals in edible palm oil. Consequently, the results of this study shows that the palm oil consumed from these selected markets does not meet the standard quality specification for edible palm oils and hence can post significant health threat to consumers. Therefore, food regulatory agencies should strengthen their surveillance to promote food and health safety of the populace.

Chemical Composition and Acceptability of Organic Bath Soap among Students in Yaba College of Technology, Yaba, Lagos State, Nigeria

The study determined the chemical composition and acceptability of organic bath soap among students in Yaba College of Technology, Yaba, Lagos State, Nigeria. The study was guided by two research questions. Mixed method research design was used for the study. Population was 46 which comprised all Home Economics students from the Department of Vocational Education. In-home use questionnaire was used for data collection. The study produced two samples of turmeric bath soap. Findings showed that the chemical compositions of the turmeric soap samples are in accordance with the specifications of the Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON) with toilet soap specifications of pH ranging from 9 to 11, total fatty matter ranging from 60-75 gm and total free caustic soda ranging from 0.05 to 0.08 %. Findings showed that the sensory evaluation attributes for colour, smell, consistency foam ability and skin sensitivity were accepted after use for three months as the samples were skin friendly, safe to use without side effects. It was recommended that turmeric body soap and turmeric face gel can be produced in large quantities for commercial purpose as a form of income generation for unemployed graduates.

Beneath the Surface: Uncovering Heavy Metal Contamination in Public Drinking Well Water and the Public Health Implications in Kaduna South LGA, Nigeria

Unsafe drinking water has emerged as a critical global public and environmental health concern, particularly in underdeveloped nations. Evidence indicates that unsafe water sources are responsible for approximately 1.2 million deaths annually, most of which are the result of heavy metal (HM) contamination, which poses a severe threat to public health. This study explored selected HM contamination and the likely non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic health risks to the consumers of public drinking well water sources in Kaduna South LGA, Nigeria. Atomic absorption Spectroscopy was adopted for HM analysis, and potential health risks were evaluated using the established Human Health Risk Exposure Assessment Indices. The findings indicated an unsafe quantity of HMs, with the mean concentration above the recommended limit prescribed by the Standard Organization of Nigeria (2007) and the World Health Organization (2011) for most HMs in the order; Zn (33.523) &gt; Mn (2.805) &gt; Pb (0.793) &gt; Cr (0.05), as well as a substantial non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic health risk for adults and children with the Hazard Index and Cancer Risk values above the recommended standards. The findings will prove useful to public health authorities in developing evidence-based monitoring and active interventions tot facilitate the delivery of safe drinking water to the local population.

Microbiological Quality of Selected Non-Sterile Pharmaceutical Products Retailed in Anyigba, Kogi State, Nigeria

This study was designed to check for the microbiological quality of non-sterile products retailed in Anyigba. The use of contaminated non-sterile pharmaceutical products can cause hazards in a majority of ways like economic loss to the industrialists, alter the therapeutic effect of the drug and affect the health of a patient. A total of 10 samples were collected; the isolated organisms were characterized and identified by using morphological, cultural and biochemical tests. The organisms isolated were Staphylococcus aureus, E.coli and Pseudomonas spp, Aspergillus spp, Mucorspp, Saccharomyces spp and Rhizopus spp. The percentage of the isolate includes S. aureus 37 (45.7%), E.coli 16 (19.7%) Pseudomonas spp 28 (34.5%) to safeguard the product from contamination, it is important to ensure that good manufacturing practices such as raw material testing, equipment sanitization and automation, microbial testing of water, training of personnel, post marking surveillance, monitoring of environment among others were employed. The focus should also be on surveillance and effective monitoring of the distribution and marketing of pharmaceutical products. Local regulatory agencies such as the Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON), and the National Agency for Food,drug administration and Control (NAFDAC) should always ensure that all pharmaceuticals released into the market for sales and consumption should conform to specifications and are fit for their intended use.

Age-dependent Radiological Risk Assessment of Radon (222Rn) in Samples of Commercial Bottled Water from Benin City, Nigeria

Radon inhalation as well as ingestion through the use of water has a high potential of causing serious harm to sensitive cells and organs of the body when absorbed into the bloodstream. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the radiological health damage caused by radon in drinking bottled water available in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. Radon concentration was measured using a RAD7 electronic radon detector. The mean activity concentration radon is 137.18 ± 0.25 mBq/L. This mean value is slightly higher than 0.1 Bq/L recommended by the Standard Organisation of Nigeria but lower than the maximum contaminant level (MCL) of 11.1 Bq/L set by the United States Environmental Protection Agency and 100 Bq/L set by the World Health Organisation (WHO) for consumption of radon in drinking water. The mean total annual effective dose is 1.07±1.91 (\(\mu\)Sv/y) for infants, 0.61±1.09 (\(\mu\)Sv/y) for children, and 0.70±1.24 (\(\mu\)Sv/y) for adults. The computed annual effective dose to the public by inhalation and ingestion radon through the use of bottled water in the study areas are lower than the 0.1 mSv/y limit recommended by WHO. The estimated average for the age group excess lifetime cancer risk are 3.21 ± 5.71, 1.836 ± 3.26, 2.086 ± 3.71 (x 10-6) for infants, children and adults respectively. These values are below the world average permissible levels. Hence, consumption of the water examined poses no serious health risk to consumers.

Microbiological Quality of Selected Non-Sterile Pharmaceutical Products Retailed in Anyigba, Kogi State, Nigeria

This study was designed to check for the microbiological quality of non-sterile products retailed in Anyigba. The use of contaminated non-sterile pharmaceutical products can cause hazards in a majority of ways like economic loss to the industrialists, alter the therapeutic effect of the drug and affect the health of a patient. A total of 10 samples were collected; the isolated organisms were characterized and identified by using morphological, cultural and biochemical tests. The organisms isolated were Staphylococcus aureus, E.coli and Pseudomonas spp, Aspergillus spp, Mucorspp, Saccharomyces spp and Rhizopus spp. The percentage of the isolate includes S. aureus 37 (45.7%), E.coli 16 (19.7%) Pseudomonas spp 28 (34.5%) to safeguard the product from contamination, it is important to ensure that good manufacturing practices such as raw material testing, equipment sanitization and automation, microbial testing of water, training of personnel, post marking surveillance, monitoring of environment among others were employed. The focus should also be on surveillance and effective monitoring of the distribution and marketing of pharmaceutical products. Local regulatory agencies such as the Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON), and the National Agency for Food,drug administration and Control (NAFDAC) should always ensure that all pharmaceuticals released into the market for sales and consumption should conform to specifications and are fit for their intended use.

Investigation on the Quality of Prolonged Storage of Packaged Water Commonly Produced in North Central, Nigeria

This study investigated the effects of prolonged storage conditions on the physicochemical parameter, toxic metals, microbial loads, and health risks assessment of randomly selected three brands of sachet and bottled water in North Central, Nigeria. One hundred eighty samples of water brands (sachet and bottled) were collected from 10 different factories and were grouped into three. They were analyzed immediately (initial), being exposed to mild sunlight (stored with a container) and exposed to intense sunlight (stored without a container) conditions for six weeks. The results of the physicochemical parameters (sachet and bottle) were within the limits set by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON). While the results of heavy metals analysis for both sachet and bottled water recorded 0.15 - 0.51 mg/L (0.10 mg/L , 0.05 mg/L), 0.13 - 0.38 mg/L (0.015 mg/L, 0.01 mg/L) and 0.55 - 1.11 mg/L (0.03 mg/L, 0.3 mg/L) for Chromium (Cr), Lead (Pb) and Iron (Fe) respectively, as compared to the permissible limits (values in the bracket for each heavy metals) set by WHO and SON. The microbial analysis results ranged between 6.58 - 124.51 Cfu/100 mL, 0.52 - 37.56 Cfu/100 mL, 0.07 - 5.00 Cfu/100 mL, 0 - 2.07 Cfu/100 mL for Total Bacteria Count (TBC), Total Coliform Count (TCC), Faecal Coliform Count (FCC) and Total Fungal Count (TFC) respectively, which showed no effective quality control system. Incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) assessment revealed a carcinogenic health risk to the populace drinking this water. The study concludes that water stored under sunlight for a long period is not good for human consumption and therefore adequate monitoring by the appropriate agencies is emphasized.

Physicochemical characteristics and heavy metals of groundwater during the wet and dry seasons at the Lafarge cement factory environment, Sagamu, Ogun State, Nigeria

AbstractThis study examined the physical, chemical, and heavy metals in groundwater from boreholes and hand‐dug wells at the Lafarge cement factory environment at Sagamu, Ogun State, Nigeria. Water samples were obtained from 20 sampling locations during the wet and dry seasons of 2019. The 17 parameters determined include the pH, temperature, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids (TDS), total hardness, alkalinity, salinity, chloride, sulfate, phosphate, nitrate, calcium, magnesium, copper, lead, iron, and cadmium. The samples were analyzed using titrimetric and spectrophotometric methods. Correlation analysis was applied as part of the analytical tool in this study. The result indicated low physiochemical concentration of pH, total hardness, sulfate, nitrate, chloride, magnesium, calcium (&gt;1% to 15%), and electrical conductivity (&gt;1000 μS/cm) and fell within the Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON) and World Health Organization (WHO) desirable and maximum permissible limits for potable water during the wet and dry seasons. However, phosphate was above the standard limit for portable water of 6.5 mg/L in all sampling locations, whereas the total alkalinity was above the WHO standard limit (200 mg/L) in 12 locations in the wet seasons and a location in the dry season. Salinity was also above standards in one and four locations in the wet and dry seasons, respectively. Lead and cadmium were not detected in most locations, whereas iron, lead, cadmium, and copper were above standard limits in some locations. A significant relationship exists between the heavy metals and some of the physiochemical parameters at p ≥ .05 and p ≥ .01. The polluted water in most locations is capable of resulting in an adverse health hazard. Thus, this study explains the effect of physicochemical and heavy metals on water management at Sagamu and is important for water resource planning.

Comparative assessment of microbial, proximate and sensory quality of bread produced from all-purpose flour and a blend of locally made flour

The nutritional and sensory quality of different flour blends for baked products has been investigated. However, there is paucity of information on the quality of the conventional all-purpose flour which is expected to be chiefly of wheat origin and thus very expensive. Comparative analysis of the microbial, proximate and sensory quality of bread produced from all-purpose flour and blends of locally made flour was undertaken. Composite breads were produced from all-purpose flour (APF) 100%, wheat flour (WF) 100%, potato flour (PF) 100% and WF:PF blend (50%:50%). The microbial, proximate and sensory qualities, as well as the shelf life of the bread samples were determined. Data was analyzed using SPSS software. The bacterial and fungal counts were less than the maximum of 100 cfu/g recommended by the Standard Organization of Nigeria. The moisture and ash content of the PF bread was significantly higher (p &lt; 0.05) than the rest of the flour blends. Among the flour blends, APF recorded the lowest fiber, ash and protein content. There was no significant difference (p &gt; 0.05) in the mean sensory scores of APF bread and WF:PF bread with respect to taste and overall acceptability. PF and WF:PF bread had the highest shelf life of 8 and 7 days respectively. The nutritional composition of the bread produced from 100% WF and 50%:50% WF:PF blends were higher than that produced using the conventional APF. Thus, PF could be blended with WF to improve the nutritional quality and minimize cost of bread and other baked products.

Physicochemical and Bacteriological Quality Assessment of Selected Tap Water from Male and Female Hostels within Nile University of Nigeria, Abuja, FCT

Water is a resource that all living things require to survive. Water should have good physical, chemical and microbiological quality. The present study aimed to assess the quality of drinking water in Nile University male and female hostels which was determined by; examining the physicochemical parameters with reference to the standards set by the World Health organization (WHO) and Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON). Isolation and conventional identification of bacterial isolates using biochemical tests, the molecular identification and the antibiogram of bacteria isolates were carried out. A total of ten (10) water samples, five (5) samples each from the male and female hostels were aseptically collected in sterile sample bottles. Physicochemical parameters examined in each water sample were within the limits recommended with the exception of Total hardness in water samples (F1, F2, F3, F4, M1, M2, M5) and color in the water samples (F1, F2, F3, F5, M1, M2, M4, M5). Total bacterial counts in water samples ranged from (1.03 x 106 - 2.78 x 106 CFU/mL) in the female hostel water samples and ranged from 1.40 x 106 - 2.24 x 106 CFU/mL in the male hostel water samples. The total coliform counts in water samples ranged from 0 - 5.0 x 105 CFU/mL in the female hostel and 3.2 x 105 - 5.5 x 105 CFU/mL in the male hostel respectively. The probable organisms identified were various groups of microorganisms which included: Bacillus species, Staphylococcus species, Listeria species, Aeromonas species, Proteus species and Alcaligenes faecalis. However, the molecular identification of some of the bacterial isolates confirmed the presence of Alcaligenes faecalis in the sample F1, F2, M1 and M3. The most sensitive antibiotics against each bacterial isolates in water samples was Gentamicin at concentration of 10μg/mL, ciprofloxacin at concentration of 5μg/mL and nitrofurantoin at concentration of 10μg/mL. This study shows that ,although the organisms identified and confirmed are usually opportunistic and don’t necessarily cause major health hazards, the quality of the drinking water in the male and female hostels at Nile University of Nigeria needs to be managed better and treated more often to prevent the presence of any opportunistic microorganisms.

Assessment of the Quality of Bar Soaps Produced from Blends of Palm-Oil and African Walnut Seed-Oil

This study was conducted to determine the characteristics of soap produced from various fats and oils. Palm oil was purchased, and walnut oil was extracted from its seeds. Five blends of palm oil and African walnut oil were used, together with their individual oils. The cold method of soap-making was employed in this study. Five blends (PW0, PW1, PW2, PW3, and WP0) were prepared in a ratio, and each blend was used for soap production. Each oil blend was characterized for saponification value, acid value, peroxide value, iodine value, and free fatty acid content, and their results were as follows: (182±0.20 – 234±0.30 mgKOH/g), (1.60±0.20 – 3.37±0.12 mgKOH/g), (5.0±0.25 –12.5±0.1 Meq KOH/g), (37.5±0.50 – 55.6±0.25 gI2100/g) and (0.80±0.20 – 1.68±0.12 mgKOH/g). The percentage of total fatty matter in the soap samples ranged from (52±0.1% to 77 ± 0.05%). WP0 (palm oil 0% – walnut oil 100%) had the lowest percentage value of total fatty matter (52±0.1%) among the soap samples produced, while PW0 (palm oil 100% – walnut oil 0%) had the highest percentage value of total fatty matter (77±0.05%). Judging by % total fatty matter, PW0 gave the best soaps because its total fatty matter value fell within the acceptable limits of the Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON). The pH values observed from the blended samples ranged from 10.28 ± 0.01 – 12.20 ± 0.03. PW3 (palm oil 25% – walnut 75%) had the highest values of 12.20 ± 0.03, which makes it harsh for the body. Thus, based on the findings of this study, it can be concluded that soap samples PW0 (palm oil 100% – walnut 0%) and PW1 (palm oil 75% – walnut 25%) can be suggested for use in laundry due to their favorable physicochemical properties (high% Total Fatty Matter, normal pH values, high foam ability).

Comparison of Total Viable Bacteria Counts and in situ Characteristics in Drinking Water Sources in Sagbama Town, Bayelsa State, Nigeria

Before the 21st century, most of Nigeria's rural and coastal communities obtained their drinking water from surface water sources. However, due to development, many coastal towns now get their drinking water from underground sources. Nevertheless, surface water remains a crucial source of drinking water in communities where groundwater is inaccessible. This study evaluated the density of total heterotrophic bacteria and in situ characteristics of drinking water sources in Sagbama town in the Sagbama Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, Nigeria. Triplicate water samples were obtained from five stations for each of the water types (ground and surface water). The water samples were analyzed following standard procedures. The results of ground and surface water ranged from 2.33 to 2.86 (overall mean of 2.52) Log CFU/mL and 2.70 to 3.87 (overall mean of 3.24) Log CFU/mL for total heterotrophic bacteria counts, 7.05 to 7.68 (overall mean 7.40) and 7.06 to 7.31 (overall mean 7.22) for pH, 146.67 to 232.00 (overall mean 169.13) mg/L and 40.23 to 45.60 (overall mean 41.50) mg/L for total dissolved solids, 207.57 to 327.67 (overall mean 239.31)µS/cm and 56.73 to 64.47 (overall mean 58.55) µS/cm for conductivity, and 0.11 ppt and 0.03 ppt (in all the stations) for salinity. The temperatures of both kinds of water were in the range of 26°C. Except for the pH, salinity, and conductivity of groundwater, an analysis of variance reveals no significant differences (p&gt;0.05) across sites for any water type. The overall t-test revealed that all parameters, except pH and temperature, were statistically distinct (p&lt;0.05) between the various water types. According to Pearson’s correlation, conductivity correlates positively with total dissolved solids for both kinds of water. In contrast, salinity correlates positively with conductivity and total dissolved solids for surface water at p&lt; 0.01. Except for total heterotrophic bacteria counts on surfaces, which exceeded World Health Organization standards, other parameters fell within the Standard Organization of Nigeria and World Health Organization guidelines. Therefore, drinking surface water from the research location without first purifying it increases the chance of avoidable ill health consequences.