Level of Copper, Manganese and Zinc in Common Traditional Foods in Minna, North-Central zone of Nigeria

Abstract

Eleven (11) common traditional foods widely consumed in Minna city were examined for their copper, manganese and Zinc content selected based on the analysis of food consumption survey conducted through the administration of questionnaire. Copper, Manganese and Zinc elements were determined using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS).Result indicates that Kunu Tsamiya, Tuwon Alkama da miyan Kuka, and Fura da nono are reliable sources of optimum value of copper (8.23mgKg-1),manganese (22.30mgKg-1) and zinc (70.19 mgKg-1) respectively. The levels of the elements found in the examined foods were not excessive to cause harm and are therefore generally safe to health. However, within the limit of the detection of the instrument used, copper is lacken in Tuwon Shinkafa da miyan wake, kosai and Fura da nono. Similarly, no traceable detection of manganese in Masa da miyan ganye, Kunu Tsamiya, Tuwon Masara da miyan bushekubewa and Kosai.The study showed that daily square meals of these foods in terms of repetition or combination would yield values of these essential trace elements that can meet the Required Dietary requirement (RDA) as approved by the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) and the World Health Organisation (WHO). It is therefore implied that well guided consumption pattern of these traditional foods, can be a veritable green health tool in remedy and prevention of mineral malnutrition in Nigeria. The foods have great potential to contribute to management and sustainability of healthy living.