Assessment of Heavy Metals in Slaughtered Cattle and Goats in Gwagwalada, Abuja, Nigeria

Environmental pollution with concomitant contamination of foods of plant and animal origin, particularly by heavy metals, continues to be of great concern in many parts of the world, especially in developing countries. These heavy metals—whether naturally occurring or synthetic—are ubiquitous. Humans encounter them via water, air, plants, and animals, as they enter the body through inhalation, contact, and ingestion, ultimately accumulating in various tissues and organs with deleterious health outcomes. This study assessed the blood and tissue levels of cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), cobalt (Co), lead (Pb), and arsenic (As) in cattle and goats slaughtered at the Gwagwalada abattoir, Abuja, Nigeria, using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The findings revealed elevated levels of these metals in various tissues, often exceeding FAO/WHO safety limits, indicating potential public health risks. More regular evaluation of meat and meat products for heavy metals should be undertaken and safety limits should be enforced to protect public health.