PROXIMATE AND MINERAL ELEMENTS ASSESSMENT OF IMPORTED DRIED FISH (STOCK FISH) IN DAMATURU MAIN MARKET

This study assessed the proximate and mineral element assessment of imported dried fish (stock fish) in Damaturu Main Market, Yobe State, Nigeria. Dried fish is a vital source of protein and essential nutrients for many households in the region, with a significant portion imported from neighboring countries. However, concerns exist regarding the nutritional quality and safety of these products due to variations in processing, storage, and transportation practices. Samples were collected from different vendors in the market using a stratified random sampling approach and analyzed following standard AOAC (2019) methods for proximate composition and APHA (2017) protocols for mineral content using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The proximate analysis revealed that the imported dried fish contained high crude protein (59.44 g/100g), moderate crude fat (12.82 g/100g), and low moisture content (10.71 g/100g), indicating good preservation quality. The ash content was notably high at 15.62 g/100g, likely due to bone retention or mineral addition during processing. Mineral analysis demonstrated that the dried fish was rich in essential minerals, particularly calcium (867.00 mg/100g), magnesium (183.60 mg/100g), and iron (4.59 mg/100g), confirming its significant nutritional value for bone health and metabolic functions. However, trace amounts of heavy metals were detected: lead (0.019 mg/100g), cadmium (0.007 mg/100g), and mercury (0.016 mg/100g). While these concentrations were below international maximum limits set by the Codex Alimentarius Commission, their presence raises concerns about potential long-term health risks from cumulative exposure, especially for vulnerable populations. The study concludes that imported dried fish in Damaturu Main Market is nutritionally valuable and generally safe for consumption, but continuous monitoring and quality control are essential to manage heavy metal contamination risks. Recommendations include implementing routine regulatory monitoring, improving supply chain quality assurance, raising consumer awareness, and conducting further research on longterm exposure risks.