Comparative Assessment of Heavy Metals (Al, Mn, Se, Sb, Mo) in Commercially Sold Seafood from Markets in Enugu State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study assessed the concentrations of selected heavy metals—aluminum (Al), manganese (Mn), selenium (Se), antimony (Sb), and molybdenum (Mo)—in commonly consumed seafood (catfish, snail, and periwinkle) obtained from Abakpa, Garki, and Ogbete markets in Enugu, Nigeria. Three of each of the seafood collected from each market were analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry to determine metal levels and evaluate potential health risks. Results showed that selenium consistently had the highest concentrations across all markets and seafood types, with a maximum value of 0.156 mg/kg observed in snails from Ogbete market. Antimony was the least detected metal, often occurring at very low levels or being undetectable, particularly in catfish from Garki market. Molybdenum concentrations varied among seafood types, with the highest level (0.078 mg/kg) found in catfish from Abakpa market, while manganese showed notable accumulation in periwinkle, reaching up to 0.069 mg/kg. Aluminum concentrations were moderate, with a maximum value of 0.058 mg/kg. The concentrations of all analyzed heavy metals in the seafood sold in these markets are considered safe for human consumption. The statistical analysis involved ANOVA (α = 0.05) to evaluate differences in metal concentrations between species and locations, alongside correlation analysis to investigate relationships between metal concentrations.