Educating Parents on Children Daily Dietary Intakes Concentration of Heavy Metal in Biscuits and Rusks in Pakistan

Abstract

The present research objectives were to analyze and compare the concentration levels of heavy metals in twelve different brands of rusks in Pakistan. Heavy metal contamination in food, products such as; biscuits and rusks, poses significant health hazards. These metals, including copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), iron (Fe), nickel (Ni), cadmium (Cd), and lead (Pb), can accumulate in food through various sources like soil, water, and industrial pollution. This experimental study employed a multistage sampling technique to collect rusk samples from Pakistani markets. The samples categorized into three groups: branded, generic, and local bakery. The Di-Acid method and Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer were used to assess the concentrations of the heavy metals in the samples. The analysis revealed varying levels of heavy metals across the different brands. Branded and generic rusks showed higher concentrations of certain metals compared to local bakery products. The estimated Daily Dietary Intake (DDI) values indicated a potential health risk due to the presence of these metals. Close monitoring and strict quality control measures are necessary to ensure the safety of bakery products. Raising awareness among parents about the potential health risks associated with heavy metal exposure from these products is also recommended.