Heavy metal migration, exposure, and health risk through canned tomato mix under different marketing display models.

Abstract

Canned tomato products are popular for their convenience, long shelf life, and nutritional benefits. However, concerns about heavy metals leaching from can linings pose health risks. This study examined lead (Pb) and tin (Sn) migration in canned tomato mix under different marketing conditions (sunlight exposure and enclosed shops). Utilizing a cross-sectional analytical design, 32 canned tomato mixes were sampled from the Effutu Municipality, and 400 University of Education, Winneba students were surveyed on consumption habits. Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) was employed to measure Pb and Sn concentrations. The entire study received the approval of the Ghana Health Service (GHS-ERC: 043/06/23). The results revealed that while heavy metal levels were within regulatory limits, sunlightexposed products had higher Lead contamination (0.052±0.12 mg/kg) than those in enclosed shops (0.038±0.02 mg/kg). Tin levels remained consistent between both conditions. Consumption data showed a preference for using canned tomato mix in Jollof rice, stew, and soup, with higher rates among females. The hazard quotient (HQ) for Pb was higher in sunlight-exposed products for both males (0.052) and females (0.093) compared to enclosed shops. Chronic daily intake (CDI) of Pb was higher in products exposed to sunlight, with males consuming 0.00052 mg/kg-d and females 0.00063 mg/kg-d. The incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) for Pb exceeded acceptable thresholds, with the maximum and 95th percentile values ranging from 3.28 x10-6 to 6.29 x10-6 indicating long-term health concerns. The study underscores the need for stricter regulations and increased consumer awareness to reduce heavy metal exposure in canned foods, supporting improved food safety standards in retail environments.