Abstract:
The study was carried out to identify animal species processed and sold as bush meat and also used to determine the concentration of heavy metals in the processed bush meat sold along selected highways in Southwestern Nigeria. There is a higher preference for animal protein over those from plant probably due to the perceived delicacy / palatability, and favorable quality than plant protein. It is an important food source, consumed in both rural and urban areas, and can make a significant contribution to the cash income of rural households living in extreme poverty. Estimates of the national value of the trade range from US$42-205 million across countries in West and Central Africa. The study was undertaken by visiting the selected highways where the processed bush meat was displayed for sale. The sampling method employed in the study was purposive and the processed meat samples were obtained by buying from the sellers. The animals sold at each point were recorded. The samples were transported to the laboratory where tests were administered on them to determine the heavy metal content. Descriptive statistical tools were used in presenting the results. The study revealed that the processed bushmeat sampled all had varying concentrations of heavy metals (Pb, Zn, Cu, and Cd). The heavy metal concentration of the processed bush meat was checked against the standard set by the National Agency for Food Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) to ascertain to ascertain the safety or otherwise for human consumption. Presence of heavy metals in processed bush sold along highways could be attributed to fumes released by vehicles which use leaded fuels, type of water used in the meat processing, additives used during processing, and ratio of the old and new cars which pass through the selected highways, amongst other factors. Heavy metal presence in processed bush meat can be reduced by enlightenment of the meat processors and empowerment of relevant agencies to be able to ensure that safety standards are adhered to. This study has been carried out in a bid to help the public become more aware of the amounts of heavy metals in their delicacy and to be guided properly before purchase and consumption.
