Cancer Prevention and Risk Assessment of Popular Street Fries in Lagos, Nigeria: Analyzing Acrylamide, PAHs, and Heavy Metal Contamination

Street fries are a popular fast food in Lagos, but concerns about their safety have risen due to potential exposure to carcinogenic substances. This study investigates the presence of harmful compounds, including acrylamide, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and heavy metals, in commonly consumed street fries such as yam fries, potato fries, and plantain chips. Samples were collected from 20 street vendors across Lagos and analysed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). The results revealed acrylamide levels ranging from 120 to 480 µg/kg, PAH concentrations between 2.5 and 15.8 µg/kg, and heavy metal contamination, with lead (Pb) levels ranging from 0.02 to 0.15 mg/kg and cadmium (Cd) levels up to 0.08 mg/kg. These values exceed recommended safety limits in several cases, raising concerns about long-term health effects. The findings highlight the potential cancer risks associated with frequent consumption of street fries and emphasise the need for regulatory monitoring and public health awareness.