HUMAN HEALTH RISK ASSESSMENT OF LEAD (Pb) AND NICKEL (Ni) IN EDIBLE COWHIDE FROM LOKOJA, KOGI STATE, NIGERIA

Processed cowhide is a widely consumed meat source in Nigeria due to its availability and affordability compared to other beef parts. However, its common processing methods, often involving car tyres and refined petroleum products such as premium motor spirit and kerosene, raise significant public health concerns due to potential contamination with toxic heavy metals. This study evaluated the health risks associated with lead (Pb) and nickel (Ni) in edible cowhide sold across major markets in Lokoja metropolis, Kogi State, Nigeria. Heavy metal concentrations were analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS), and health risk assessments were conducted using Estimated Daily Intake (EDI), Target Hazard Quotient (THQ), and Hazard Index (HI), following USEPA guidelines. Results from 30 cowhide samples showed Pb and Ni concentrations ranging from 0.91 to 1.29 mg/kg and 26.42 to 27.48 mg/kg, respectively, both significantly above FAO/WHO permissible limits. EDI values revealed highest exposure levels in children, followed by adult women and men. THQ values were also highest among children, particularly in Old Market, reaching 0.46 for Pb and 1.72 for Ni. Hazard Index values for combined exposure exceeded the safe limit of 1 in all child groups (1.98–2.18), indicating potential noncarcinogenic health risks, while adult values remained below 1. Carcinogenic risk (CR) values from Pb exposure fell within the acceptable range (10⁻⁶–10⁻⁴), but were highest in children (up to 1.37 × 10⁻⁵). These findings suggest that regular consumption of cowhide, especially among children, may pose both non-carcinogenic and low-level carcinogenic risks. Improved processing methods, public health education, and routine safety monitoring are recommended to reduce exposure and safeguard consumer health.