QUALITY PARAMETERS (PH, CA, MG) AND HEALTH RISK ASSESSMENT OF HEAVY METALS IN SACHET TOMATO PASTE

Tomato paste is one of the most widely consumed food products in Nigeria, serving as an essential ingredient in daily meals. Its safety and nutritional quality are therefore of great public health importance. This research was carried out to evaluate selected quality parameters and assess the potential health risks associated with heavy metal contamination in sachet tomato paste brands sold in local markets. Fifteen different brands of sachet tomato paste were randomly collected and subjected to laboratory analyses. The physicochemical quality parameters determined included pH, calcium, and magnesium, while the concentrations of four toxic heavy metals lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), and nickel (Ni) were quantified using standard analytical procedures after wet acid digestion. The results showed that the pH values (3.51 - 4.19) of the tomato paste samples generally fell within the acceptable range specified for tomato-based products, indicating suitable acidity for preservation. Calcium (0.0604%-0.01028%) and magnesium (0.0276% - 0.0355%) contents varied significantly among the brands, suggesting differences in raw material composition and processing methods, with potential implications for both nutritional contribution and product stability. Heavy metal analysis revealed detectable levels of Pb (0.0021±0.0001mg/kg– 0.0036±0.0001mg/kg), Cd (0.0012±0.001mg/kg -0.0026±0.0001mg/kg), Cr (0.0021±0.0001mg/kg- 0.0036±0.0001mg/kg), and Ni (0.0021±0.0000kg/kg - 0.0033mg/kg±0.0001mg/kg) in several samples, though concentrations varied across brands. To evaluate potential health risks, Estimated Daily Intake (EDI), Target Hazard Quotient (THQ), and Hazard Index (HI) were calculated for both adult and child consumers. While most values were within permissible limits set by international regulatory bodies, certain samples showed elevated levels of Cd and Pb that may pose long-term health risks, especially in children due to their higher vulnerability and lower body weight. In conclusion, the study emphasizes the need for regular monitoring of heavy metals in tomato paste, strict enforcement of food safety standards, and public awareness to minimize potential health hazards. The findings also highlight the importance of ensuring uniform processing practices among manufacturers to safeguard consumer health.