Heavy Metal Bioaccumulation in <i>Solanum torvum</i> (Sw.) (Turkey Berry) From the Bono and Ahafo Regions: Nutritional Potential and Toxicological Risks

ABSTRACT Heavy metal contamination of agricultural soils and subsequent bioaccumulation in food crops poses significant public health concerns, particularly in mining regions. This study investigated heavy metal concentrations in turkey berry (Solanum torvum) fruits and associated soils from three locations in Ghana's mining belt, evaluated soil contamination indices, and assessed potential health risks from fruit consumption. Fruit and soil samples were collected from farms in Kenyasi (mining area), Sunyani, and Berekum. Samples were acid‐digested and analyzed for Fe, Zn, Cd, and Ni using flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Results showed elevated metal concentrations in fruits, particularly from mining‐proximate farms, with Fe (106.27 ± 2.05–218.63 ± 4.05 mg/kg), Zn (32.78 ± 2.20–68.24 ± 2.40 mg/kg), and Cd (0.58 ± 0.10–2.93 ± 0.31 mg/kg) exceeding recommended dietary intake levels. Bioconcentration factors indicated significant accumulation of Zn, Cd, and Ni in fruits, especially in mining‐impacted zones. The pollution load index suggested anthropogenic enrichment of soil metals linked to mining activities. These findings highlight the need for soil remediation in mining‐affected areas and moderation of turkey berry consumption to minimize potential health risks. This study provides crucial data for food safety monitoring and environmental management in mining‐impacted agricultural zones.