Food Safety of Rice (<i>Oryza sativa </i>L.) in Agricultural Zones within Ebonyi State, Nigeria: A Mineral and Heavy Metal Health Risks Assessment

Rice is consumed heavily in Nigeria by both children and adults of the rich and the poor alike. Though available, studies often lack the indepth and critical approach that encourages policy formulations. We investigated the physicochemical properties, essential mineral content, and heavy metal concentrations in rice from three major producing centres in Ebonyi State, Nigeria, alongside associated human health risks. Physicochemical analysis showed correlateions among gelatinization temperature, electrical conductivity (EC), and viscosity, suggesting agrochemical influence, and a negative correlation between EC and pH. Essential mineral analysis revealed potassium, magnesium, and calcium levels generally below daily recommended intake, while sodium levels were commendably low. Heavy metal concentrations of chromium, lead, cobalt, copper, and zinc were largely within WHO/FAO limits. Cadmium and manganese consistently exceeded their thresholds across all locations. Iron in Abakaliki and Afikpo, and nickel in Afikpo, also surpassed permissible limits, likely due to localized soil, agricultural practices, and irrigation water quality. Estimated Daily Intake (EDI) for most metals was within safe limits for adults and children. Cadmium posed a significant carcinogenic risk, especially for children. Chromium, lead, and nickel also warrant monitoring due to their potential carcinogenic effects at high exposure. Therefore, while rice provides essential minerals, the persistent exceedances of cadmium, manganese, iron, and nickel necessitate continuous monitoring, sustainable farming, and farmer education to ensure long-term food safety for consumers of rice from Ebonyi State.