High Cadmium Levels in Cured Meat Products Marketed in Nigeria: Implications for Public Health

The study evaluated 13 samples of cured meat products from South-west Nigeria for heavy metal content, specifically lead, cadmium, chromium, and nickel, using atomic absorption spectroscopy. It found that all samples contained cadmium levels between 0.35 and 1.20 ppm, which were higher than acceptable limits for consumable products, while lead, chromium, and nickel were not detected. The findings highlighted the need for stringent regulatory control of heavy metals in cured meats in Nigeria to minimize public health risks, as heavy metals can disrupt physiological processes and contribute to pathological conditions, including cancer.