Using Nuclear Methods in X-Ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy to Quantify Heavy Metals in Senegalese Powdered Milk: Improving Milk Safety

This study utilized X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy to assess heavy metal and elemental contents in five Senegalese powdered milk samples, aiming to enhance milk safety. Aluminum was largely absent, posing minimal risk, but calcium and potassium levels were significantly above the Acceptable Maximum Levels (AML) in some samples, with calcium in sample H1 exceeding the AML by 11.1 times and potassium in sample G1 far surpassing the AML. Chlorine levels were mostly within limits, except for a slight excess in one sample, and phosphorus levels were notably high in sample H1. These findings emphasize the necessity for ongoing monitoring and regulation to ensure the safety and quality of powdered milk products, highlighting the effectiveness of X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy in detecting and quantifying potentially harmful elements.